suffix

¹suf·fix

noun \ˈsə-fiks\

Definition of SUFFIX

: an affix occurring at the end of a word, base, or phrase — compare prefix

— suf·fix·al \ˈsə-fik-səl, (ˌ)sə-ˈfik-səl\ adjective

Examples of SUFFIX

1. The adjective “smokeless” is formed by adding the suffix “-less” to the noun “smoke.”
2. The adverb “sadly” is formed by adding the suffix “-ly” to the adjective “sad.”

Origin of SUFFIX

New Latin suffixum, from Latin, neuter of suffixus, past participle of suffigere to fasten underneath, from sub- + figere to fasten — more at fix

First Known Use: 1778

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile

Rhymes with SUFFIX

admix, affix, commix, deep-six, immix, infix, postfix, prefix, premix, prix fixe, prolix, quick fix, trail mix, transfix, unfix

²suf·fix

transitive verb \ˈsə-fiks, (ˌ)sə-ˈfiks\

Definition of SUFFIX

: to attach as a suffix

— suf·fix·a·tion \ˌsə-fik-ˈsā-shən\ noun

First Known Use of SUFFIX

1778

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile