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optative

adjective op·ta·tive \ ˈäp-tə-tiv \

Definition of optative

1 a : of, relating to, or constituting a verbal mood that is expressive of wish or desire
b : of, relating to, or constituting a sentence that is expressive of wish or hope
2 : expressing desire or wish
—

optative

noun
—

optatively

adverb

Recent Examples of optative from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'optative.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of optative

15th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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