rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: -osus
Latin

-osus

full of, having; characterized by

Forms

  • -osus
  • -ous — English ending developed through French.
  • -ose — A learned English form based on the Latin suffix.

Origin

Latin -osus, a suffix attached to nouns; its deeper formation is uncertain.

Note

Usually marks a characteristic, without requiring a literal abundance of anything.

55 / 117
Black vocalist sings pleasingly while listeners relax.
adjective

melodious

muh-LOH-dee-us/məˈləʊdiəs/

Having a pleasant, tuneful sound.

Etymology
melGreeksong
+odiGreeksong, ode
+ousLatinfull of, having; characterized by

The two song elements formed a word for singing or a pleasant song. The adjective describes something characterized by that musical quality, including a voice or sound that is agreeable to the ear.

Full entry

Related word entries