appellative

American  

[uh-pel-uh-tiv] / əˈpɛl ə tɪv /

noun

1. a descriptive name or designation, as Bald in Charles the Bald.

2. a common noun.

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adjective

1. designative; descriptive.

2. tending toward or serving for the assigning of names.

   the appellative function of some primitive rites.

3. pertaining to a common noun.

appellative British  

/ əˈpɛlətɪv /

noun

1. an identifying name or title; appellation

2. grammar another word for common noun

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adjective

1. of or relating to a name or title

2. (of a proper noun) used as a common noun

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• appellatively
  adverb
• appellativeness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of appellative

1375–1425; late Middle English (< Middle French ) < Late Latin appellātīvus. See appellate, -ive

Example Sentences

Now a taxidermied water buffalo head — the ox — watches from above the bar, while the appellative bull is represented across from it in gleaming metal.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 26, 2023

Archer’s name is generally associated with it, but without taking that definite and appellative form it ought to.

From The Evolution of Photography With a Chronological Record of Discoveries, Inventions, etc., Contributions to Photographic Literature, and Personal Reminescences Extending over Forty Years by Werge, John

To the root vip place as an appellative the Welsh gwibio, to rove, wander, gwibiau, serpentine course.

From The River-Names of Europe by Ferguson, Robert

She had learned the tender German appellative from Fr�ulein.

From The Devourers by Chartres, Annie Vivanti

The younger brother softened at the old appellative; he composed his ruffled feathers, and went at it more submissively.

From Mattie:?A Stray (Vol 2 of 3) by Robinson, Frederick William