Langimage
English

anicular

|a-ni-cu-lar|

C2

🇺🇸

/əˈnɪkjələr/

🇬🇧

/əˈnɪkjʊlə/

of or like an old woman

Etymology
Etymology Information

'anicular' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'anicularis,' where 'anicula' (diminutive of 'anus') meant 'old woman'.

Historical Evolution

'anicularis' transformed into the learned English adjective 'anicular' through post-classical/Neo-Latin influence in early modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'of or pertaining to old women,' and later broadened figuratively to mean 'old-womanish; fussy or timid.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

of or relating to old women; characteristic of old women.

The tale was rich with anicular wisdom passed down through generations.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

old-womanish in manner; fussy, timid, or overcautious.

His anicular worries about a slight draft amused everyone at the cabin.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/08/11 04:52