Langimage
English

demonstrative

|de-mon-stra-tive|

C1

🇺🇸

/dɪˈmɑːnstrətɪv/

🇬🇧

/dɪˈmɒnstrətɪv/

showing openly

Etymology
Etymology Information

'demonstrative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'demonstrativus,' where 'demonstrare' meant 'to point out or show.'

Historical Evolution

'demonstrativus' transformed into the Old French word 'demonstratif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'demonstrative.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to point out or show,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a demonstrative word, such as a pronoun or adjective, that indicates the person or thing referred to.

In the sentence 'This is my book,' 'this' is a demonstrative.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

tending to show feelings, especially of affection, openly.

She was very demonstrative, always hugging and kissing her friends.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39