-ferous

1. a combining form meaning “bearing,” “producing,” “yielding,” “containing,” “conveying,” used in the formation of compound words:

   coniferous; pestiferous.

-ferous

combining form

1. See -gerous
   bearing or producing Compare -gerous

   coniferous

   crystalliferous

Word History and Origins

Origin of -ferous¹

Middle English; -fer, -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of -ferous¹

from -fer + -ous