elective Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a course that the student can select from among alternatives
    elective course.
  2. adjective subject to popular election
    elected.
    • elective official
  3. adjective satellite not compulsory
    • elective surgery
    • an elective course of study

WordNet

E*lect"ive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. électif.
Definitions
  1. Exerting the power of choice; selecting; as, an elective act.
  2. Pertaining to, or consisting in, choice, or right of choosing; electoral.
    The independent use of their elective franchise. Bancroft.
  3. Dependent on choice; bestowed or passing by election; as, an elective study; an elective office.
    Kings of Rome were at first elective; . . . for such are the conditions of an elective kingdom. Dryden.
E*lect"ive noun
Definitions
  1. In an American college, an optional study or course of study. Colloq.

Webster 1913