passive-aggressive

adjective

pas·​sive-ag·​gres·​sive ˈpa-siv-ə-ˈgre-siv 

: being, marked by, or displaying behavior characterized by the expression of negative feelings, resentment, and aggression in an unassertive passive way (as through procrastination and stubbornness)

It is passive-aggressive behavior, the donning of a mask of amiability that conceals raw antagonism toward one's competitors, even one's friends.

—Hilary De Vries

A passive-aggressive manager eschews open hostilities, in part because he feels distinctly uncomfortable with them.

—Walter Kiechel III

passive-aggressive noun

Examples of passive-aggressive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example: a passive-aggressive leader may imply through comments or tone that taking a full leave period could hurt the team's performance or place undue strain on colleagues. —Christine Michel Carter, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024

Ginny, their passive-aggressive control freak of a mother, will not admit into her home any problems, doubts or identities that violate her sense of upbeat Christian propriety. —Jesse Green, New York Times, 13 Dec. 2024

Organization presents can be genuinely beautiful objects—not just passive-aggressive reminders to get your life in order. —Emily Johnson, Bon Appétit, 5 Dec. 2024

The majority of passive-aggressive work emails came to employees from their own co-workers, according to a new poll from Mailsuite. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

passive-aggressive

1 of 2 adjective

: being, marked by, or displaying behavior characterized by expression of negative feelings, resentment, and aggression in an unassertive way (as through procrastination, stubbornness, and unwillingness to communicate)

a passive-aggressive personality

passive-aggressively adverb

passive-aggressive

2 of 2 noun

: a passive-aggressive individual