Gerundive

/dʒəˈrʌndɪv/ noun

Definition

In Latin grammar, a verb form that acts as an adjective expressing the idea that something must be done or is fit to be done.

Etymology

From Latin gerundivus, from gerundium (gerund); the suffix -ive indicates a tendency or obligation, literally meaning 'having the quality of requiring to be done.'

Kelly Says

The gerundive created one of history's most clever naming tricks—'agenda' is literally the plural of 'agendum' (thing to be done), which is why our to-do lists come from Latin grammar.

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