baylike
|bay-like|
/ˈbeɪ.laɪk/
resembling a bay
Etymology
'baylike' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'bæġ' (for 'bay') combined with the suffix '-līc', where '-līc' meant 'having the form of' or 'like'.
'baylike' developed from Middle English compound forms such as 'bay-like' (from Middle English 'bay' + '-like'); 'bay' itself evolved from Old English 'bæġ' into Middle English 'bay' and then modern English 'bay', and the adjective formation stabilized as 'baylike'.
Initially it meant 'having the form or characteristics of a bay,' but over time it has also been used figuratively to mean 'sheltered' or to describe a 'bay (reddish-brown) color.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
resembling or characteristic of a bay (a coastal inlet); having the shape, curves, or sheltered qualities of a bay.
The coastline became baylike, creating a calm harbor for the small fishing boats.
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Adjective 2
having a bay color — a reddish-brown or chestnut-brown shade, especially used of horses or fur.
In the late afternoon sun her coat looked baylike and warm.
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Last updated: 2026/01/01 20:53