magnetically
Meaning
in a way that relates to or is caused by magnetism
in a way that is very attractive or compelling
Structure
Usage
the particles were aligned magnetically.
the region is magnetically shielded from solar winds.
her personality draws people in magnetically.
Etymology
the word's journey begins with the ancient greek term 'magnēs lithos', referring to a magnetic ore found in the region of magnesia. latin adopted this as 'magnēs' for the lodestone itself. the adjectival suffix '-ic', of greek origin via latin, was appended to form 'magnetic', describing properties pertaining to the magnet. finally, the adverb-forming suffix '-ally', a fusion of latinate adjectival and adverbial elements, was added to describe the manner of an action. thus, the literal construction "in the manner of the magnesian stone" evolved into the modern abstract senses of acting through physical magnetic force or with powerfully attractive quality.
Analysis
- magnet: from greek 'magnēs lithos' (stone of magnesia), via latin 'magnēs'. functions as the core noun root. - ic: from latin '-icus', greek '-ikos'. functions as an adjective-forming suffix meaning "of, pertaining to, or having the nature of". - ally: from latin '-ālis' (adjectival) combined with '-iter' (adverbial) via old french '-el' and middle english '-alli'. functions as an adverb-forming suffix meaning "in a manner of".