proper adjective

noun

Grammar.

1. an adjective formed from a proper noun, as American from America.

Word History and Origins

Origin of proper adjective¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

In the U.S., the reimbursement process is just, well, I can’t find the proper adjective.

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Perhaps Jurassic is the proper adjective for a reptile this imposing.

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However, perhaps "distinguished" is not the proper adjective, since her present companion possessed, stored inside his kit, among the personal treasures in his rough, pine-wood chamber a Distinguished Service Medal presented him by the United States Government and a Croix de Guerre, the gift of a grateful France.

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Somewhat startled at this unexpected salutation from the fairer, or the softer sex—I am in some doubt as to the proper adjective in this case—I gazed rather blankly at her without replying; but she dropped on her knees again and went on with her work, satisfied doubtless that she at least knew the proprieties.

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After a while his wife had found the proper adjective for it: his eyes were haunted.

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