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delectably

UK[dɪˈlɛktəbli]US[dɪˈlɛktəbli]
adv

in a way that gives great pleasure, especially to the taste; deliciously

adv

in a manner that is highly pleasing or delightful

Morpheme Breakdown

delect
able
ly
delect

to delight

able

capable of

ly

adverb suffix

Etymology

the word 'delectably' traces its lineage to the latin verb delectare, meaning 'to delight or charm', which itself is a frequentative form of delectere, 'to allure'. the suffix -abilis was attached in latin to form the adjective delectabilis, signifying 'capable of delighting'. this term was adopted into middle english as 'delectable'. the final layer, the old english adverbial suffix -lice (modern -ly), was then appended, creating the modern adverb. thus, the word's evolution encapsulates a journey from a latin action of charming, through a state of being delightful, to the manner in which that delight is experienced.

Analysis

Structure: delect (to delight) + able (capable of) + ly (adverb suffix) delect: from latin delectare meaning 'to delight, charm, please'. it functions as the core verbal root. able: from latin -abilis, a suffix forming adjectives meaning 'capable of, worthy of'. it modifies the root to create an adjective. ly: from old english -lice, an adverb-forming suffix. it converts the adjective into an adverb.

Examples

the cake was delectably moist and rich.

she sang the aria delectably, captivating the entire audience.

the room was decorated delectably for the festive occasion.

delectably – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology