-le

¹

1. a suffix of verbs having a frequentative force:

   dazzle; twinkle.

2. a suffix of adjectives formed originally on verbal stems and having the sense of “apt to”:

   brittle.

3. a noun suffix having originally a diminutive meaning:

   bramble.

4. a noun suffix indicating agent or instrument:

   beadle; bridle; thimble.

l.e.

²

abbreviation for

, Football.

1. left end.

LE

¹

abbreviation for

1. lupus erythematosus

-le

²

suffix forming verbs

1. denoting repeated or continuous action, often of a diminutive nature

   twiddle

   wriggle

   wrestle

Word History and Origins

Origin of -le¹

Middle English -len, Old English -lian (v.); Middle English -el, Old English -ol (adj.); Middle English -el, Old English -il (diminutive); Middle English -el, Old English -ol, -ul (agent)

Word History and Origins

Origin of -le¹

from Middle English -len, Old English -lian, with similar significance

Example Sentences

The eventual winner of Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, pulled out of Miss Universe last week citing an undisclosed medical condition.

From BBC

This was particularly notable in a reading of the libretto for a proposed new opera by Ted Hearn, one of our most politically outspoken composers, based on Ursula K Le Guin’s “The Dispossessed.”

From Los Angeles Times

Mia le Roux who was set to represent South Africa at the Miss Universe finals this weekend in Mexico has pulled out of the competition, organisers have announced, citing health concerns.

From BBC

The Miss South Africa organisation in a statement said Ms Le Roux's health and well-being "are our utmost priority" and pledged to support her until she "returns to full health".

From BBC

The last-minute withdrawal means South Africa will not be represented at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, where Ms Le Roux was among 120 beauty queens vying for the coveted title.

From BBC