demonstratively
UK[dɪˈmɒn.strə.tɪv.li]US[dɪˈmɑːn.strə.tɪv.li]
adv
In a way that shows feelings, especially of affection, openly and obviously.
adv
In a manner that serves to demonstrate or prove something.
Morpheme Breakdown
demonstra
tive
ly
demonstra
show
tive
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word 'demonstratively' is built upon the Latin verb demonstrare, meaning "to point out or show clearly," which combines the intensive prefix de- with monstrare (to show). The suffix -tivus was added in Latin to create the adjective demonstrativus, describing something that serves to show or point out. Entering English via Old French, the adjective "demonstrative" gained the specific grammatical sense of pointing out (as in demonstrative pronouns) and the behavioral sense of openly showing emotion. The final addition of the ubiquitous Germanic adverbial suffix -ly completed its transformation into an adverb, encapsulating the journey from a physical act of pointing to a manner of expressive behavior or logical proof.
Analysis
Structure: demonstra (show) + tive (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- demonstra: From Latin demonstrare (to point out, show), itself from de- (completely) + monstrare (to show). In this word, it functions as the core verbal root meaning "to show."
- tive: A suffix of Latin origin (-tivus) used to form adjectives meaning "pertaining to, tending to." Here, it forms the adjective "demonstrative."
- ly: An Old English adverbial suffix (-lice) used to form adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in a manner of."
Examples
He hugged her demonstratively in front of their friends.
The lawyer pointed demonstratively at the key evidence on the chart.
She is not demonstratively affectionate, but she shows she cares in other ways.