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obsessive-compulsive definition

obsessive-compulsive (əb ses′iv kəm pul′siv)

adjective

designating or of a mental disorder, esp. a neurosis, characterized by compulsive thoughts or actions, irresistible urges, etc., that are unwanted and uncontrollable and interfere with work, social activity, and personal relationships, and often appear as repeated, somewhat ritualistic performances of certain acts

noun

a person who is obsessive-compulsive

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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