Attenuable

/əˈtɛnjuəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Capable of being made thinner, weaker, or less intense.

Etymology

From Latin 'attenuabilis,' derived from 'attenuare' (to make thin), combining 'ad-' (to) and 'tenuis' (thin). The suffix '-able' indicates capacity or possibility.

Kelly Says

The prefix 'ad-' combined with 'tenuis' literally means 'to make thin,' which is why words like 'attenuate' and 'attenuator' all relate to weakening or reducing something—even electrical signals!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.