apocopate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //əˈpɒkəpeɪt//
KK: /əˈpɑkəˌpeɪt/
adjective
Definition
Describing a word that has been shortened by removing the last sound or syllable.
Example
The word 'photo' is an apocopate form of 'photograph'.
Conversation
Have you noticed how some of our friends use apocopate forms of words in their texts?
Yeah, it's kind of funny!
I wonder if they even realize they're doing it with such apocopate phrases.
Probably not, but it definitely makes their texts more casual.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shortened
abbreviated
truncated
Antonyms
extended
lengthened
prolonged
verb
Definition
To make a word shorter by removing its last sound or syllable.
Example
In poetry, it is common to apocopate words to fit the rhythm.
Tense Forms
Past: apocopated
Past Participle: apocopated
Conversation
Have you ever heard someone apocopate words in casual speech?
Yeah, it’s interesting how dropping the end can change the flow of conversation.
Right? I noticed it makes everything sound more relaxed.
Root Explanation
Apocopate is formed from "apocope" (from Greek "apokoptein", meaning to cut off) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or perform). The word refers to the act of cutting off a part of a word, typically the end, in linguistic terms.
Memory Tip
Think of 'cutting off' ('apokoptein') a part of a word when you hear 'apocopate' — it means to make a word shorter by removing its ending.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.