adjective equivalent

noun

: a word or word group that is not an adjective but has the noun-modifying function of an adjective (as music in "music teacher", dancing in "dancing teacher", John's in "John's dog", on the wall in "the picture on the wall", the doctor in "my friend the doctor", who plays golf in "a man who plays golf")

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adjective equivalent was in 1875

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near adjective equivalent

Cite this Entry

“Adjective equivalent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adjective%20equivalent. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!