balloonlike
|bal-loon-like|
/bəˈluːn.laɪk/
resembling a balloon
Etymology
'balloonlike' originates from English compounding of 'balloon' and the adjective-forming suffix '-like'. 'Balloon' itself originates from French 'ballon', specifically the Italian word 'ballone' meaning 'large ball'.
'balloon' entered English in the late 16th century from French 'ballon', which developed from Italian 'ballone' (an augmentative of words meaning 'ball'). Over time 'balloon' shifted from meaning 'large ball' to 'an inflated hollow object', and 'balloonlike' was formed by adding '-like' to express resemblance.
Initially, 'balloon' meant 'large ball', but over time it evolved into the modern meaning 'an inflated hollow object'; consequently 'balloonlike' came to mean 'resembling a balloon' (round, inflated, or buoyant).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
resembling or suggestive of a balloon; having the shape, appearance, or characteristics of a balloon (e.g., inflated, rounded, or buoyant).
The sculpture had a balloonlike form, its smooth curves and inflated appearance catching the light.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/07 05:42