transitive verb

transitive verb Word Origin noun Grammar.

1. a verb accompanied by a direct object and from which a passive can be formed, as deny, rectify, elect.

Origin of transitive verb First recorded in 1580–90 transitive verb in Culture transitive verb

A verb that needs a direct object to complete its meaning. Bring, enjoy, and prefer are transitive verbs. (Compare intransitive verb.)

Note Some verbs can be transitive in one sentence and intransitive in another: turned is transitive in “Brenda turned the wheel sharply” but intransitive in “Fred turned when I called.”