negative

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Bad, harmful, or unwanted.

   The decision had a negative effect on the local economy.

2. 2
   adj

   Focusing on the bad side of things; not hopeful or encouraging.

   Try not to be so negative about your chances.

3. 3
   adj

   (of a medical test) showing that a condition or disease is not present.

   Her test results came back negative.

4. 4
   adj

   Less than zero.

   The temperature dropped to a negative number overnight.

5. 5
   noun

   An answer or reply that means no.

   They answered in the negative.

From Middle English negative, negatif, from Old French negatif, from Latin negātīvus (“that denies, negative”), from negāre (“to deny”); see negate.

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