anile
|an-ile|
C2
/ˈænaɪl/
like an old woman
Etymology
Etymology Information
'anile' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'anīlis,' where 'anus' meant 'old woman' and the suffix '-ilis' meant 'pertaining to.'
Historical Evolution
'anīlis' was taken into English in the 17th century as a learned borrowing, eventually becoming the modern English word 'anile'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'of an old woman'; over time it also came to suggest feebleness or foolishness stereotypically associated with old age.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
of or characteristic of an old woman; old-womanish in manner or style.
His anile fussing over the curtains made everyone smile.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/11 08:53