recidivous,a.|rɪˈsɪdɪvəs| [f. L. recidīv-us + -ous.] Liable to fall back or relapse. 1658Phillips, Recidivous, falling, or sliding back to the same passe as it was before. [Hence in Bailey, Johnson, and later Dicts.]1890Times 24 Oct. 3/5 The establishment of agricultural colonies for recidivous criminals.