Search Dictionary
Definition of allusive

allusive

/əˈluːsɪv/
al · lu · sive
Adverb:allusively
JUMP TO:

allusive Lexical Profile

allusive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Containing, characterized by, or making use of indirect references or hints, especially to literature, history, or culture.

Example

"The poet's highly allusive style requires readers to have a strong background in classical mythology."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for allusive
Antonyms
View all antonyms for allusive

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with 'elusive' (difficult to find, catch, or achieve) and 'illusive' (deceptive or based on illusion); 'allusive' specifically means containing indirect references or hints.

• Nearby Words

alluring
alluringly
allusion
allusive
ally
allyship
alma

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 17th century from the Latin stem 'allus-' (past participle of 'alludere', meaning 'to play with' or 'to jest at') combined with the adjectival suffix '-ive'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Allusive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/allusive
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.