Ile

¹

abbreviation

Biochemistry.

1. isoleucine.

ile-

²

1. variant of ileo- before a vowel.

   ileac.

-ile

³

1. a suffix of adjectives expressing capability, susceptibility, liability, aptitude, etc..

   agile; docile; ductile; fragile; prehensile; volatile.

-ile

suffix

1. indicating capability, liability, or a relationship with something

   agile

   fragile

   juvenile

Word History and Origins

Origin of Ile¹

From the Latin word -ilis, -īlis

Word History and Origins

Origin of Ile¹

via French from Latin or directly from Latin -ilis

Example Sentences

A driver has rammed his car into pedestrians and cyclists on the Ile d'Oléron, off the west coast of France, leaving 10 people hurt including several in a critical condition.

Read more on BBC

Our final destination is the Île d’Oléron, which we were told is the more laid-back and affordable of the pair of islands just off the coast to the west of Bordeaux.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Once we arrive at Île d’Oléron, we try a beachfront campground but it feels too crowded with glamping pods and prefab huts.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Last spring, glossy magazine Paris Match published paparazzi pictures of her and her new partner strolling on Île de Ré.

Read more on BBC

Soon after the end of the trial she retreated to Île de Ré, a small island off France's Atlantic coast.

Read more on BBC

When To Use

What does ile- mean?

Ile- is a combining form used like a prefix representing the word ileum, the third and lowest division of the small intestine. It is often used in medical terms, especially in anatomy and pathology.Ile- ultimately comes from the Latin īlia, meaning “side of the body between hips and groin, guts.”Ile- is a variant of ileo-, which loses its -o- when combined with words or word elements beginning with vowels.Want to know more? Read our Words That Use ileo- article.