-bellied
suffix
UKˈbɛlɪdUSˈbɛlɪd
a suffix used to form adjectives that describe a person or thing having a particular type of belly or stomach, often indicating shape or appearance
Example Sentences
He had a pot-bellied appearance due to his love for hearty meals.
The pot-bellied pig was a favorite among the farm animals.
The old man had a beer-bellied figure after years of indulgence.
She looked at the round, bellied fruit hanging from the tree.
The lion was a proud, muscular, and thick-bellied predator.
The baby's chubby, bellied form was a sign of good health.
They laughed at the image of the round-bellied caterpillar.
The hiker's backpack was large, making him appear a bit bellied from the weight.
Synonyms
How to Use
Suffix describing a characteristic or type of belly.The suffix '-bellied' is used to form adjectives that describe the shape, size, color, or other characteristics of a belly, often in animals or humans. For example, 'pot-bellied' describes a protruding belly, while 'red-bellied' refers to something with a red-colored belly. It typically attaches to descriptive terms (e.g., 'flat-bellied') to add specificity. This suffix is particularly common in biological and descriptive contexts.
Alternatives
Alternatives include descriptive adjectives without the suffix, such as 'large stomach' or 'protruding abdomen,' though these lack the compactness of '-bellied' terms.
Writing
In writing, '-bellied' is effective for vivid descriptions, especially in creative or biological contexts. For instance, describing an animal as 'yellow-bellied' creates a clear image and conveys precise information. Avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-bellied' words like 'pot-bellied' are often used humorously or descriptively. They are relatable and easy to understand, making them effective in everyday language.
Etymology
The suffix '-bellied' derives from the Old English word 'bælg,' meaning 'bag' or 'belly.' It evolved into a common descriptive suffix in English, frequently used in zoological, metaphorical, and informal contexts to describe physical characteristics.
