palatably
|pal-at-a-bly|
/ˈpælətəbli/
(palatable)
pleasant taste or acceptance
Etymology
'palatably' originates from the English adjective 'palatable' with the adverbial suffix '-ly'; 'palatable' ultimately comes (via Old French) from Latin 'palatum', where 'palatum' meant 'palate'.
'palatably' was formed in English by adding the productive adverbial suffix '-ly' to 'palatable' (Modern English). 'Palatable' came into English from Old French 'palatable' (or Medieval Latin 'palatabilis'), which ultimately derives from Latin 'palatum' ('palate').
Initially associated directly with the physical 'palate' (taste), the root gave rise to 'palatable' meaning 'suitable to the palate' and then broadened to mean 'acceptable' or 'agreeable'; 'palatably' carries that sense of 'in an acceptable/agreeable manner'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is acceptable or pleasant to the taste; in a way that is agreeable or acceptable (often used literally of food, or figuratively of ideas or proposals).
The soup was seasoned palatably, so even picky guests finished their bowls.
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Adverb 2
in a way that makes something more acceptable or easier to accept (figurative use).
The manager presented the budget cuts palatably, highlighting benefits alongside losses.
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Last updated: 2025/10/01 19:04