conative

[ kon-uh-tiv, koh-nuh- ]

adjective

1. Psychology. pertaining to or of the nature of conation.
2. Grammar. expressing endeavor or effort:

   a conative verb.

noun

1. Grammar. a conative word, affix, or verbal aspect.

conative

/ ˈkɒnətɪv; ˈkəʊ- /

adjective

1. grammar denoting an aspect of verbs in some languages used to indicate the effort of the agent in performing the activity described by the verb
2. of or relating to conation

Word History and Origins

Origin of conative¹

First recorded in 1680–90; conat(ion) + -ive

Example Sentences

Man's spirit has to carry all its knowledge and experience into its own conative spiritual potencies.

From Project Gutenberg

As to sentiments and emotions, they involve ideas and conative elements in addition to sensations and feelings.

From Project Gutenberg

With this "conative act," as the psychologists would call it, the true contemplative life begins.

From Project Gutenberg

He totally ignores the existence and organisation of the conative side of the mind.

From Project Gutenberg

The third Brook of Grace irrigates the conative powers of the self; strengthens the will in all perfection, and energises us anew.

From Project Gutenberg