-ˈkəsiv, -sēv also -səv adjective
Etymology: percuss ion + -ive
1.
a.
(1) : characterized by percussion or featuring percussion instruments
the occurrence … of inexplicable noises, usually percussive — thuds, taps, drumbeats, raps — A.G.N.Flew
percussive , furious, this wind sweeps down the mountain — Barbara Howes
percussive rhythms
(2) dancing : staccato and vigorous with suddenly checked impulse
a solemn minuet … interrupted by tropical drumbeats and percussive primitive movement — Dance Observer
b. : having powerful impact : striking , shocking
the stark dramatic power of the scenes is percussive and stabbing — William Goyen
2. : percussion
percussive drill
• per·cus·sive·ly -sə̇vlē, -li adverb