noun a subject or course of study that is chosen by a student rather than being compulsory
adjective optional or chosen by election
In politics, an elective office is a position that is filled by election rather than appointment.
In psychology, elective mutism is a condition where a person, typically a child, consistently does not speak in certain situations or to certain people.
In law, an elective share refers to the portion of a deceased spouse's estate that the surviving spouse is entitled to receive.
In medicine, an elective surgery is a planned procedure that is not considered an emergency and can be scheduled in advance.
In business, an elective contribution is a voluntary payment made by an employee towards a retirement savings plan.
In the field of education, an elective refers to a course that a student can choose to take, rather than being required to take it.
In the field of writing, elective courses may refer to optional classes that students can choose to take in addition to required courses to fulfill degree requirements.
For psychologists, elective therapy sessions are additional sessions that a client can choose to attend beyond the recommended number of sessions for treatment.