-le
a suffix of verbs having a frequentative force: dazzle; twinkle.
a suffix of adjectives formed originally on verbal stems and having the sense of “apt to”: brittle.
a noun suffix having originally a diminutive meaning: bramble.
a noun suffix indicating agent or instrument: beadle; bridle; thimble.
Origin of -le
Middle English -len, Old English -lian (v.); Middle English -el, Old English -ol (adj.); Middle English -el, Old English -il (diminutive); Middle English -el, Old English -ol, -ul (agent)
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020
British Dictionary definitions for -le
-le
suffix forming verbs
denoting repeated or continuous action, often of a diminutive naturetwiddle; wriggle; wrestle
Word Origin for -le
from Middle English -len, Old English -lian, with similar significance
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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