-ine
suffix
UK/aɪn/ or /iːn/ or /ɪn/US/aɪn/ or /iːn/ or /ɪn/
Used in multiple contexts in English, deriving from Latin and Greek. It can denote:1) Chemical substances: Especially alkaloids, halogens, or other compounds (e.g., ‘caffeine,’ ‘chlorine,’ ‘nicotine’). 2) Adjectives indicating ‘relating to’ or ‘characteristic of’ something (often animals): ‘canine’ (relating to dogs), ‘feline’ (relating to cats), ‘bovine’ (relating to cattle).
Example Sentences
Halogens like chlorine and bromine exemplify '-ine' used in chemical naming, reflecting their place in the periodic table.
Naturally occurring alkaloids such as caffeine and nicotine both incorporate this suffix, highlighting their organic chemical structures.
Feline describes traits or behaviors typical of cats, from sleek movement to nocturnal hunting instincts.
Canine refers to dogs or dog-related features, like their sharp teeth or faithful temperament.
In zoology, words like bovine and equine link these animals to the larger class of domesticated livestock, indicating a shared biological and historical importance.
Morphine, derived from opium poppies, is a powerful pain reliever that also bears the '-ine' suffix to denote its alkaloid nature.
Many modern pharmaceuticals use '-ine' to classify specific chemical structures or derived compounds, making it a recognizable marker in medical and scientific fields.
The versatile suffix '-ine' thus spans both chemistry and descriptive adjectives, allowing English speakers to label substances, biological characteristics, and familial traits with a linguistic nod to Latin and Greek origins.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix meaning 'related to,' 'characterized by,' or 'a chemical substance.'The suffix '-ine' is used in various contexts: (1) to form adjectives indicating similarity or relation, such as 'feline' (relating to cats), (2) to name chemical substances, especially organic compounds like 'caffeine' and 'chlorine,' and (3) to describe characteristics, as in 'divine' (of or related to God). It is versatile across scientific, descriptive, and literary contexts.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-ine' include phrases like 'relating to' or 'pertaining to,' such as 'cat-like' instead of 'feline.'
Writing
In writing, '-ine' provides formal or technical precision. For example, 'adrenaline' specifies a biochemical compound, while 'marine' describes something relating to the sea.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ine' appears in familiar terms like 'caffeine' or 'canine.' These terms are widely understood and directly relate to their subjects.
