affricative

1 of 2

adjective

af·​fric·​a·​tive a-ˈfri-kə-tiv 

ə-

: having the articulation of an affricate or a fricative

affricative

2 of 2

noun

af·​fric·​a·​tive a-ˈfri-kə-tiv  ə- 

plural -s

1

: affricate

2

: fricative

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

borrowed from German affrikativ, from Affrikate affricate + -iv -ive entry 1

Noun

derivative of affricative entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

1885, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1879, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now