compulsively

Compulsively is an adverb used to describe an action performed with an irresistible urge or internal pressure, rather than through deliberate choice. The behavior is often repetitive or ritualistic and aims to relieve anxiety or prevent a feared outcome.

In clinical psychology, compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to obsessions. Common examples include repeatedly checking doors or appliances, washing possessions, counting, or arranging objects. In everyday language, the term can describe especially intense engagement in an activity, such as reading compulsively or snacking compulsively, without implying a clinical disorder.

Etymology: the term derives from the adjective compulsive, which comes from Latin compellere, to drive or force. As an adverb, compulsively describes the manner of action rather than the action itself.

Related topics include obsessive-compulsive disorder, compulsive behaviors, habit, and addiction.