Langimage
English

expensiveness

|ex/pen/sive/ness|

B2

/ɪkˈspɛnsɪvnəs/

(expensive)

high cost

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeAdverb
expensivemore expensivemost expensiveexpensively
Etymology
Etymology Information

'expensive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'expensivus,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'pendere' meant 'to weigh or pay.'

Historical Evolution

'expensivus' transformed into the Old French word 'expensif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'expensive' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to weigh out or pay,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'high-priced or costly.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being costly or high-priced.

The expensiveness of the new smartphone deterred many potential buyers.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/15 00:59