attributive

adjective

at·trib·u·tive ə-ˈtri-byə-tiv

1

: relating to or of the nature of an attribute : attributing

2

grammar : joined directly to a modified noun without a linking verb (such as city in city streets)

an attributive adjective

The "apple" of "apple pie" is not an adjective but an attributive noun.

attributive noun

attributively adverb

a noun being used attributively

Example Sentences

“Red” in “red hair” is an attributive adjective. In “airplane pilot” the noun “airplane” is attributive.

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of attributive was in 1606

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Attributive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attributive. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

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Kids Definition

attributive

adjective

at·trib·u·tive ə-ˈtrib-yət-iv

: joined directly to a modified noun without a verb

"city" in "city streets" is attributive

compare predicate

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