supine
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /suːˈpaɪn/
KK: /səˈpaɪn/
adjective
Definition
Describing a position where a person is lying on their back with their face upward.
Example
After the yoga class, I lay supine on the mat to relax.
Conversation
I saw you lying supine on the couch yesterday.
Yeah, I was just taking a quick nap.
You looked so relaxed; I wish I could just lie supine and do nothing sometimes.
It's nice to take a break and just chill for a bit!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reclining
inactive
passive
Antonyms
upright
active
dynamic
noun
Definition
A specific type of noun in Latin grammar that has limited use and only two forms, used to express purpose or specification.
Example
In Latin, the supine is used to indicate purpose in certain constructions.
Conversation
I was reading about grammar and came across the term supine today.
Oh really? I haven't heard that one in a while.
Yeah, it seems to be a specific kind of verbal noun in Latin.
Root Explanation
Supine → It is derived from the Latin word "supinus" (meaning lying on the back). The word "supine" refers to a position of lying flat on one's back, as the root indicates.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone lying flat on their back — that's what 'supine' means, coming from the Latin word for that position.
Visually Confused Words
suine
spine
sulphine
resupine
upline
spline
spinet
spinel