apron-like
|a-pron-like|
/ˈeɪprənˌlaɪk/
resembling an apron
Etymology
'apron-like' is formed in modern English by combining 'apron' and the suffix '-like' (a productive English suffix meaning 'similar to' or 'having the form of').
'apron' comes via Middle English from Old French 'naperon' (a diminutive of 'nape', meaning 'tablecloth'); rebracketing of 'a napron' to 'an apron' produced the modern form. The suffix '-like' comes from Old English 'līc' meaning 'body, form' and developed into a suffix indicating similarity.
Originally 'naperon' denoted a small cloth (tablecloth); it shifted to denote a protective garment ('apron'). The Old English root 'līc' originally meant 'body' or 'form' and evolved into the suffix '-like' meaning 'similar to'; together they form 'apron-like', meaning 'resembling an apron'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
resembling an apron in shape or function; serving as a protective or covering flap.
She wore an apron-like cover to protect her clothes while painting.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
having a projecting or hanging part resembling an apron (used of anatomical, botanical, or geological features).
The frog has an apron-like fold of skin beneath its throat.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/28 03:28