having a real position, existence, or energy; existing in fact; real; actual; -- opposed to negative.-derived from an object by itself; not dependent on changing circumstances or relations; absolute; -- opposed to relative; as, the idea of beauty is not positive, but depends on the different tastes individuals.-definitely laid down; explicitly stated; clearly expressed; -- opposed to implied; as, a positive declaration or promise.-hence: not admitting of any doubt, condition, qualification, or discretion; not dependent on circumstances or probabilities; not speculative; compelling assent or obedience; peremptory; indisputable; decisive; as, positive instructions; positive truth; positive proof.-prescribed by express enactment or institution; settled by arbitrary appointment; said of laws.-fully assured; confident; certain; sometimes, overconfident; dogmatic; overbearing; -- said of persons.-having the power of direct action or influence; as, a positive voice in legislation.-corresponding with the original in respect to the position of lights and shades, instead of having the lights and shades reversed; as, a positive picture.-electro-positive.-hence, basic; metallic; not acid; -- opposed to negative, and said of metals, bases, and basic radicals.-that which is capable of being affirmed; reality.-that which settles by absolute appointment.-the positive degree or form.-a picture in which the lights and shades correspond in position with those of the original, instead of being reversed, as in a negative.-the positive plate of a voltaic or electrolytic cell.