demanding
UK[dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ]US[dɪˈmændɪŋ]
adj
Requiring much skill, effort, or attention.
adj
(of a person) Making others work hard or meet high standards; not easily satisfied.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
mand
ing
de
completely
mand
order
ing
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'demanding' originates from the verb 'demand', which entered English in the 14th century from Old French demander, meaning "to request or ask". The French term derived from Latin demandare, a compound of de- (expressing completion) and mandare (to order, entrust). The core concept of mandare is giving a charge or command, which is also the source of words like 'mandate' and 'command'. The adjective 'demanding' emerged by adding the participial suffix '-ing' to the verb, shifting the focus from the act of asking to the nature of the request itself. Thus, something or someone described as 'demanding' figuratively "thoroughly orders" or "completely commands" significant resources, effort, or compliance from others.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + mand (order) + ing (adjective suffix)
- de-: A Latin prefix meaning "completely" or "thoroughly".
- mand: A root from Latin mandare, meaning "to order, entrust, or command".
- -ing: An English suffix forming present participles and adjectives from verbs.
Examples
She has a very demanding job in corporate law.
The professor was demanding but fair, expecting the best from every student.
The rescue operation was technically demanding and required specialized equipment.