intransitive verb

noun

a verb that indicates a complete action without being accompanied by a direct object, as sit or lie, and, in English, that does not form a passive.

intransitive verb

A verb that does not need a direct object to complete its meaning. Run , sleep , travel , wonder , and die are all intransitive verbs. ( Compare transitive verb .)

Discover More

Notes

Some verbs can be intransitive in one sentence and transitive in another. Boiled is intransitive in “My blood boiled” but transitive in “I boiled some water.”

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of intransitive verb¹

First recorded in 1605–15

Discover More

Example Sentences

What looks at first, therefore, like a copula turns out to be merely an impersonal intransitive verb.

From Project Gutenberg

Men have tried to turn "revolutionise" from a transitive to an intransitive verb.

From Project Gutenberg

The same is the case with the future passive participle of the intransitive verb.

From Project Gutenberg

Run is an intransitive verb, for the action mentioned is confined to the agent; he runs.

From Project Gutenberg

An intransitive verb is one which is complete in itself, or which is completed by other words without requiring an object.

From Project Gutenberg

Word of the Day

April 23, 2024inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

Meaning and examples

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse