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fatalistic

UK[ˌfeɪtəˈlɪstɪk]US[ˌfeɪt̬əˈlɪstɪk]
adj

relating to or characteristic of the belief that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable.

adj

showing a lack of concern or resistance because of a belief that events are decided by fate.

Morpheme Breakdown

fat
al
istic
fat

fate

al

adjective suffix

istic

adjective suffix

Etymology

the word 'fatalistic' is built upon the core concept of 'fate', derived from the latin 'fatum', which literally meant 'that which has been spoken' by the gods, thus signifying a predetermined decree or destiny. the latin adjectival suffix '-alis' was added to form 'fatalis', meaning 'of or belonging to fate'. this later evolved into the english 'fatal'. to further specify a philosophical or attitudinal stance, the complex suffix '-istic'—itself with greek origins via latin—was appended. this suffix often forms adjectives relating to doctrines, practices, or characteristics, as seen in words like 'optimistic' or 'pessimistic'. therefore, 'fatalistic' elegantly denotes the quality of pertaining to or exhibiting the doctrine that all events are fated and unchangeable.

Analysis

Structure: fat (fate) + al (adjective suffix) + istic (adjective suffix) fat (from latin 'fatum', meaning 'that which has been spoken, destiny'); al (latin adjectival suffix '-alis', meaning 'pertaining to'); istic (english adjectival suffix '-istic', derived via latin '-isticus' from greek '-istikos', meaning 'of or relating to').

Examples

he had a fatalistic attitude towards the exam, believing his score was already decided.

her fatalistic resignation in the face of the crisis worried her more proactive colleagues.

the novel explores a fatalistic worldview where characters feel powerless against destiny.

fatalistic – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology