passive-aggressive

Betekenis (Engels)

1. Showing passive, sometimes obstructionist resistance to following authoritative instructions in interpersonal or occupational situations.
2. Showing covert hostility, intending to cause annoyance or to humiliate, while maintaining a transparent (to the recipient) veneer of politeness.

Etimologie (Engels)

From 1940s, after passive aggression.

Sinne

" I'm observing passive-aggressive behavior ", the psychologist said in a professional tone .