DictionaryRoot: -alis
Latin

-alis

of, relating to

Forms

  • -alis
  • -aris — Latin variant especially used when the stem already contained l, avoiding a repeated l sound.
  • -al — English ending borrowed through French or directly from Latin.
  • -ar — English ending continuing Latin -aris.

Origin

An older Latin adjective-forming suffix; its more remote ancestry is uncertain.

Note

Expresses a relationship without specifying its kind: material, place, purpose, and other connections are possible.

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adjective

corporal

Relating to the body.

The school bans corporal punishment and teaches nonviolent ways to discipline.

Etymology

Latin corpus means body, and the ending makes an adjective. Corporal applies directly to the physical body, as in treatment or punishment affecting it.

More examples

  • Many parents oppose corporal punishment at home.
  • State law prohibits corporal punishment in public schools.
  • The report examines the lasting effects of corporal punishment.

Similar words

bodily
Directly describes the body, its functions, or its needs.
physical
Covers the body but also material objects and forces.