Definition

Able to change form to show different grammatical cases, numbers, or genders.

Example

In Latin, nouns are declinable, meaning they can change their endings based on their role in a sentence.

Conversation

Did you know that some adjectives are declinable in grammar?

Really? I thought all adjectives were pretty straightforward.

It's interesting how language works; some can change form based on context.

That makes sense! I guess declinable ones must have more flexibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Declinable → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "clinare" (meaning to lean or incline) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "declinable" refers to something that is capable of leaning down or changing form, often used in grammatical contexts to describe words that can change their form based on case, number, or gender.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'capable of leaning down' — 'de-' means down, 'clinare' means to lean, and '-able' indicates capability.

Visually Confused Words