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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 / noun

genital

JEN-ih-tuhl/ˈdʒenɪtl/

An external reproductive organ, or relating to reproductive organs.

The clinician points out genital anatomy on the medical chart.

Fully clothed clinician points to reproductive organs on a small neutral medical anatomy chart in classroom; accurate scientific illustration, no text, no erotic context.
Etymology
genitLatinbeget, bear, or produce
+alLatinof, relating to

The connection is with begetting: Latin genitalis described what concerned generation or birth. Applied to bodily organs, this became the anatomical sense 'relating to reproduction.'

In context

Modern-Day Debate62:32
concerned that men would compete in women's events officials tried to classify athletes through genital examinations
Should Trans Women Be Able to Compete in Women's Sports? | Sargon vs Brenton

More examples

  • She asks her doctor about a rash in the genital area.
  • The nurse explains how to keep the genitals clean.
  • Protective equipment helps prevent injuries to the genitals.

Forms

genital · genitals

Similar words

reproductive
Covers reproduction broadly, including processes beyond the organs themselves.
genitalia
Names the external reproductive organs collectively, rather than describing them.