customizable
UK[ˈkʌstəmaɪzəbl]US[ˈkʌstəmaɪzəbl]
adj
Able to be modified or tailored to individual requirements or preferences.
Morpheme Breakdown
custom
iz
able
custom
habit, practice
iz
e) (verb-forming suffix
able
adjective-forming suffix, capable of
Etymology
The word 'customizable' is a modern English formation built upon the established word 'customize'. Its core, 'custom', originates from the Latin consuetudo, meaning habit or established practice, which entered English via Old French. The suffix '-ize' (from Greek -izein) was attached to create the verb 'customize', meaning "to make according to personal habit or specification". Finally, the adjectival suffix '-able' (from Latin -abilis) was added, signifying "capable of being". Thus, the literal morphemic logic flows from "habit/practice" to "to make according to practice" to finally "capable of being made according to (one's own) practice", perfectly capturing its modern meaning of being modifiable to suit individual needs.
Analysis
Structure: custom (habit, practice) + iz(e) (verb-forming suffix) + able (adjective-forming suffix, capable of)
- custom: From Latin consuetudo (habit, usage, practice), via Old French coustume. Functions as the core noun root.
- ize: A verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, via Latin -izare, indicating "to make, to render, to become".
- able: An adjective-forming suffix from Latin -abilis, indicating "capable of, fit for, tending to".
Examples
The software features a customizable interface, allowing users to arrange the toolbars as they wish.
This car model comes with a wide range of customizable options, from the interior trim to the engine performance.
The service plan is highly customizable, so you only pay for the features you need.