proper adjective

noun

: an adjective that is formed from a proper noun and that is usually capitalized in English

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of proper adjective was in 1905

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proper

proper adjective

properate

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Style

“Proper adjective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proper%20adjective. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

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Kids Definition

proper adjective

noun

: an adjective formed from a proper noun

"Italian" in "Italian paintings" is a proper adjective

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proper adjective

noun

Word History

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