estimate
UK[ˈestɪmeɪt]US[ˈestɪmeɪt]
v
To form an approximate judgment or opinion regarding the value, amount, size, or cost of something.
n
An approximate calculation or judgment of the value, number, quantity, or extent of something.
Morpheme Breakdown
estim
ate
estim
value
ate
verb suffix
Etymology
The word 'estimate' originates from the Latin verb aestimāre, which meant to appraise, value, or judge the worth of something. This Latin term itself is thought to derive from an earlier root related to the concept of valuing copper or bronze (aes), reflecting its origins in tangible economic assessment. Over time, the meaning broadened from a specific financial valuation to any form of approximate calculation or judgment. The suffix '-ate' was added in English, following the Latin participial form, to create a verb meaning 'to perform the act of valuing or judging,' which subsequently also gave rise to the noun form for the result of that action.
Analysis
Structure: estim (value) + ate (verb suffix)
estim (from Latin aestimāre, meaning to value, appraise, estimate); ate (a verb-forming suffix of Latin origin, indicating an action or process).
Examples
The builder will estimate the cost of the repairs before starting the work.
According to the latest estimate, the population of the city is just over five million.
It is difficult to estimate how long the project will take without more information.