conductive

adjective

con·​duc·​tive kən-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)

Examples of conductive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scientists think the heat detected beneath Io's surface could be rising steadily from the moon's molten interior through a conductive crust or coming from pockets of cooling lava flows trapped just below the surface. — Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 24 July 2026 Penn State engineers have developed a paint-on electronic tattoo made from conductive ink. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 21 July 2026 The Zeroll is a fan-favorite due to its heat-conductive handle that allows for a smooth release. — Melissa Knific, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 July 2026 Getting electricity from heat The problem at hand is that most electrically conductive materials also conduct heat well. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 19 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for conductive

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "having the property of conducting or the ability to conduct or lead," from conduct entry 1 + -ive

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conductive was in 1840

Rhymes for conductive

See All Rhymes for conductive

Browse Nearby Words

conductitious
conductive
conductivity
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conductive. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

conductive

adjective
con·​duc·​tive kən-ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)

Medical Definition

conductive

adjective
con·​duc·​tive -ˈdək-tiv How to pronounce conductive (audio)
1
: having conductivity : relating to conduction (as of electricity)
2
: caused by failure in the mechanisms for sound transmission in the external or middle ear
conductive hearing loss
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