Understanding the English Suffix -ary and Its Variants

The English language includes a variety of suffixes that modify words to describe various relationships or characteristics. One such common suffix is -ary, which carries different meanings based on the root word it affixes to. This article delves into the intricacies of -ary and explores its related variants, such as -ery and -ory.

What Does the Suffix -ary Mean?

The suffix -ary typically denotes a relationship to or a characteristic of something, often implying a connection or association. It can be used to form adjectives and nouns that indicate a link to a specific subject, location, or quality. Some common uses include:

Pertaining to: Indicating a relationship or connection to a subject. For example, military refers to matters related to the military. Place of: Denoting a place connected with a particular function or activity. For instance, aviary refers to a place for keeping birds. Characterized by: Describing a quality or characteristic. Examples include veterinary (relating to the care of animals).

Origins and Variants

While primarily of French or Latin origin, the suffix -ary has different variant forms depending on its linguistic roots.

-ary

Derived from the French suffix “-aire,” -ary forms both masculine and feminine singular and plural nouns. Here are a few examples:

Military: relating to the armed forces. Militaire is the French equivalent, which also takes both masculine and feminine forms: militaire (masculine) and militaires (feminine). Aviary: a place for keeping birds. The French equivalent is marion and its plural is marion. Veterinary: relating to the care of animals and medical practice. The French words are vétérinaire (masculine) and vétérinaires (feminine).

-ery

Similar to -ary, -ery is derived from the French suffix “-ère.” It also forms both masculine and feminine singular and plural nouns. Examples include:

Adulterine: referring to the act of adulteration. In French, it is adultère (masculine) and adultères (feminine).

-ory

-ory is derived from the French suffix “-oire.” This form is used to create nouns and adjectives. Examples are:

Obligatory: indicating a duty or requirement. The French equivalent is obligatoire, with both masculine and feminine forms: obligatoire and obligatoires. Mandatory: obliging or requiring something to be complied with. The French is obligatoire (masculine and feminine).

The Transparency of -ary Words

Some -ary words are fully transparent, where the meaning of the word can be deduced from the root and the suffix. For example:

Imaginary: relating to the mind or imagination (prefix “in-” meaning “not”). Dromedary: a one-humped camel (from Latin “dromon,” meaning race). Dictionary: a book containing words with their meanings and usage (prefix “dic-” meaning “to say”). Gregarious: fond of company; sociable. Nefarious: extremely wicked or evil. The Latin root “necus” means “to kill.” Various: different or diverse.

However, some -ary words are not fully transparent and may be considered ordinary or coined terms, like:

Centenary: a period of 100 years (prefix “cent-” meaning “100”). Elementary: fundamental or essential. Mortuary: a place for keeping the dead or their remains.

The suffix -ary can often be seen in English words derived from Latin, such as:

Necessary: an adjective meaning “indispensable.” The Latin is neecessus (necesse). Temporary: a noun meaning “lasts for a short time.” The Latin is tempus (time). Momentary: lasting just a moment, from tempus. Sedimentary: relating to the deposition of materials in layers, from sedimentum (sediment).

Conclusion

The suffix -ary, along with its variants -ery and -ory, adds significant meaning and variety to the English language. By understanding its different applications and origins, one can better appreciate the nuances and connections within words. Whether forming abstract associations or concrete places, these suffixes play a crucial role in the English lexicon.