interactive

[ in-ter-ak-tiv ]

adjective

1. acting one upon or with the other.
2. of or relating to a two-way system of electronic communications, as by means of television or computer:

   interactive communications between families using two-way cable television.

3. (of a computer program or system) interacting with a human user, often in a conversational way, to obtain data or commands and to give immediate results or updated information:

   For many years airline reservations have been handled by interactive computer systems.

interactive

/ ˌɪntərˈæktɪv /

adjective

1. allowing or relating to continuous two-way transfer of information between a user and the central point of a communication system, such as a computer or television
2. (of two or more persons, forces, etc) acting upon or in close relation with each other; interacting

interactive

1. If users receive real-time feedback from a computer so that they can modify the use of the machine, the hardware, software, or content, the system is said to be interactive.

Derived Forms

• ˌinteracˈtivity, noun

Other Words From

• inter·active·ly adverb
• nonin·ter·active adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of interactive¹

First recorded in 1825–35; inter- + active

Example Sentences

He proposed basing it on this quotidian word song cycle in conjunction with the existing instrumental pieces, and weaving the result into an interactive film piece.

From Los Angeles Times

Think of an IndieCade happening as a showcase for what’s underground, what’s next and what’s important in interactive storytelling, a gathering that takes a wide-angle view to all things play.

From Los Angeles Times

The images submitted will be added to an interactive map to help researchers document flood and erosion risks in coastal areas.

From Los Angeles Times

Transport remains the most popular theme among toys, according to Circana, but animals now sit in second, with interactive pets becoming increasingly popular.

From BBC

You can follow the President, Senate and House live election results and progress on our interactive elections map.

From Salon

Related Words

• bilateral
• collective
• reciprocal