I. ə̇nˈvektiv, -tēv also -təv adjective
Etymology: Middle English invectiff, from Middle French invectif, from Late Latin invectivus, from Latin invectus (past participle of invehere ) + -ivus -ive
: of, relating to, or characterized by insult or abuse : denunciatory
a sharp corrective message, suitably invective — Edith G. Blanchard
II. noun
( -s )
1. : an abusive expression or diatribe : a vehement verbal attack
replied with invectives fierce and scurrilous — J.A.Froude
thundering invective against sin — Ernest Beaglehole
2. : critical or insulting language : violent abuse : vituperation
as his anger mounted, ridicule and invective poured from his mouth searing and burning all that they touched — D.L.Cohn
Synonyms: see abuse