adjective equivalent

noun

: a word or word group that is not an adjective but has the noun-modifying function of an adjective (as music in "music teacher", dancing in "dancing teacher", John's in "John's dog", on the wall in "the picture on the wall", the doctor in "my friend the doctor", who plays golf in "a man who plays golf")

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adjective equivalent was in 1875

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near adjective equivalent

Cite this Entry

“Adjective equivalent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adjective%20equivalent. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!


Odd Habits and Quirks

  • image1926873504
  • Which of the following best describes an easily irritated person?
Name That Thing

You know what it looks like… but what is it called?

TAKE THE QUIZ
Universal Daily Crossword

A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.

TAKE THE QUIZ