aversive

[ uh-vur-siv, -ziv ]

adjective

1. of or relating to aversion.
2. of or relating to aversive conditioning.

noun

1. a reprimand, punishment, or agent, used in aversive conditioning:

   Antabuse is a commonly used aversive in the treatment of alcoholism.

aversive

/ əˈvɜːsɪv /

adjective

1. tending to dissuade or repel

Derived Forms

• aˈversively, adverb

Other Words From

• a·versive·ly adverb
• a·versive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of aversive¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; avers(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

If you stumble during a presentation, you might feel stressed the next time you have to present because your brain associates your next presentation with that one poor and aversive experience.

From Science Daily

The participants were then asked to recontextualize the stimulus by generating new kinds of thoughts about an image to make it less aversive, before a neutral image was presented followed by another dislikable image.

From Science Daily

"The framework by which we judge what is rewarding or aversive is fundamental to how we make medical decisions," said co-senior author Hans Breiter, a professor of computer science at UC.

From Science Daily

This circuit, known as the aversive pathway of nicotine usage, plays a crucial role in limiting nicotine intake and withdrawal symptoms.

From Science Daily

Four in five of those who participated in the study reported using aversive training methods, such as shouting, which vets said could increase fear and anxiety.

From BBC

Related Words

• aloof
• apathetic
• callous
• cruel
• disinterested
• indifferent
• insensitive
• lukewarm
• unconcerned
• unpleasant
• unresponsive