DictionarydeclinationGrammatical variation
noun

declination

Variation in a noun, pronoun, or adjective to express grammatical function.

The lesson introduces declination through changes in Latin noun endings.

Etymology

The Latin verb includes bending or inflecting. Grammar applies that change of form to words whose endings vary with their role in a sentence.

More examples

  • The chart illustrates the declination of Latin pronouns.
  • Adjective declination lets the ending show gender, number, and case.
  • Students practice noun declination by changing singular forms to plural forms.

Forms

declination · declinations

decline verb — To change form to express grammatical function.

Similar words

declension
The usual modern term for this grammatical variation.
inflection
Covers grammatical changes in verbs as well as nouns.