The meaning of REFLEXIVE is directed or turned back on itself; also : overtly and usually ironically reflecting conventions of genre or form. How to use reflexive in a sentence.

Define reflexive. reflexive synonyms, reflexive pronunciation, reflexive translation, English dictionary definition of reflexive. adj. 1. Directed back on itself.

reflexive adjective (MOVEMENT) done because of a physical reaction that you cannot control:

Feb 10, 2026 · "Equals" is a reflexive relation, as it holds for all possible x; "not less" is non-reflexive because it is true only for some x and y, "unequal" is irreflexive, as it never holds between x and itself.

reflexive, adj. & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

denoting a verb used transitively with the reflexive pronoun as its direct object, as the French se lever "to get up" (literally "to raise oneself") or English to dress oneself

automatic, habitual, unthinking, etc. a smile that seemed merely reflexive, not heartfelt

REFLEXIVE meaning: 1 : showing that the action in a sentence or clause happens to the person or thing that does the action; 2 : happening or done without thinking as a reaction to something

Definition of reflexive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Something that's done automatically, without thought, is reflexive. Things that refer to themselves can also be called reflexive, especially certain parts of grammar, as in this sentence: "I took extra time to …