designative
|de-sig-na-tive|
/ˌdɛzɪɡˈneɪtɪv/
to indicate/mark
Etymology
'designative' originates from Latin, specifically the Late Latin word 'designativus', ultimately from the verb 'designare', where the prefix 'de-' served as an intensifier/marker and 'signare' (from 'signum') meant 'to mark' or 'to sign'.
'designative' passed from Late Latin 'designativus' (and related Romance forms such as Old/Middle French 'designatif') into English usage, becoming the modern English adjective 'designative'.
Initially it meant 'pertaining to marking or designating,' and over time it has retained that core sense of 'indicating or pointing out' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
serving to designate or indicate; relating to designation or naming.
The charter contains a designative clause that specifies the beneficiaries.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/20 23:09