Origin: Latin suffix -ive
Elective has 5 different meanings across 2 categories:
a course that the student can select from among alternatives
"She chose art history as her elective to complete the requirements for graduation."
Something that is an option or may be freely chosen, especially a course of study.
"Students can choose any elective to fulfill their graduation requirements."
In plain English: An elective is a class you choose to take instead of required subjects because it interests you.
"She took an elective class to learn about graphic design instead of her required history courses."
Of, or pertaining to voting or elections; involving a choice between options.
"The class schedule offered several elective courses that allowed students to choose subjects based on their personal interests."
In plain English: An elective is something you choose to do instead of doing what someone else tells you to.
"You have to choose an elective course if you want to finish your degree early."
Usage: Use the adjective form when describing something optional, such as elective courses in school where students choose their own subjects. Distinguish it from "required" by noting that an elective is not mandatory for graduation or completion of a program.
The word elective comes from combining elect with the suffix -ive. It entered English to describe something that is chosen or selected by a vote rather than assigned automatically.