Aptote

/ˈæptoʊt/ noun

Definition

In linguistic analysis, a noun or word that has no case declensions and remains unchanged in different grammatical roles.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) and 'ptosis' (falling/case), literally meaning 'without case.' The term was used by ancient grammarians to describe indeclinable words.

Kelly Says

English nouns like 'sheep' are almost aptote—they don't change form when plural, which is unusual in the history of our language!

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