negative
|neg-a-tive|
/ˈnɛɡətɪv/
denial or refusal
Etymology
'negative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'negativus,' where 'negare' meant 'to deny.'
'negativus' transformed into the Old French word 'negatif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'negative' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to deny or refuse,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'expressing denial or refusal.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a word or statement that expresses denial, disagreement, or refusal.
The answer was a firm negative.
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Verb 1
to deny or contradict something.
The evidence negates his claim.
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Adjective 1
expressing or implying denial, disagreement, or refusal.
She gave a negative response to the proposal.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35