Definition

Describing a word that does not change form to show grammatical features like tense or case, even though it belongs to a category of words that usually do change form.

Example

In Latin, some adjectives are indeclinable, meaning they do not change their endings based on gender or number.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about indeclinable words in grammar?

Yeah, I think they don't change form, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how some words are indeclinable and remain the same.

I find that really fascinating; it makes language a bit simpler!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indeclinable → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "declinare" (meaning to lean or bend). The word describes something that cannot be bent or changed, particularly in grammatical terms where it does not change form.

Memory Tip

Think of something that cannot be 'bent' or 'changed' — 'in-' means not, and 'declinare' means to lean or bend.

Visually Confused Words