gerundive

[ juh-ruhn-div ]

noun

1. (in Latin) a verbal adjective similar to the gerund in form and noting the obligation, necessity, or worthiness of the action to be done, as legendus in Liber legendus est, “The book is worth reading.” gerund ( def 1 ).

adjective

1. resembling a gerund. gerund ( def 2 ).

gerundive

/ ˌdʒɛrənˈdaɪvəl; dʒɪˈrʌndɪv /

noun

1. (in Latin grammar) an adjective formed from a verb, expressing the desirability of the activity denoted by the verb

adjective

1. of or relating to the gerund or gerundive

Derived Forms

• gerundival, adjective
• geˈrundively, adverb

Other Words From

• ger·un·di·val [jer-, uh, n-, dahy, -v, uh, l], adjective
• ge·rundive·ly adverb
• nonge·rundive adjective
• nonge·rundive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of gerundive¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Late Latin word gerundīvus. See gerund, -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of gerundive¹

C17: from Late Latin gerundīvus, from gerundium gerund

Example Sentences

Well, if you have, how are you going to spot the gerund and the gerundive?

From Project Gutenberg

Lovely, with a show of insouciance, bagged three gerunds and one gerundive.

From Project Gutenberg

This construction is especially frequent with phrases consisting of a gerundive and a noun.

From Project Gutenberg

The gerundive with esse denotes either physical necessity (must), or moral obligation (ought).

From Project Gutenberg

"Gerundive, sir," said P. Lentz promptly, observing Stover's ears in a state of revolution.

From Project Gutenberg