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Definition of percussive

percussive

/pɚˈkʌs.ɪv/
per · cus · sive
Adverb:percussively
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percussive Lexical Profile

percussive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or produced by the striking of one solid object against another; having a sharp, rhythmic, or drum-like sound quality.

Example

"The guitarist used a percussive technique by tapping rhythmically on the wooden body of the instrument."

2

Operating by or involving physical impact, force, or rapid tapping (such as in mechanical drilling or therapeutic massage).

Example

"Athletes often use percussive massage devices to relieve deep muscle tension after intense training."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for percussive

• Nearby Words

percolator
percussion
percussionist
percussive
peregrine
peregrine falcon
perennial

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from the Latin stem percuss- (from percutere, meaning 'to strike forcibly or beat'), combined with the English adjective suffix -ive.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Percussive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/percussive
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