moderate
UK[ˈmɒdərət]US[ˈmɑːdərət]
adj
Average in amount, intensity, quality, or degree; not extreme.
adj
(Of a person, party, or policy) not radical or excessively right- or left-wing.
v
To make or become less extreme, intense, or violent.
Morpheme Breakdown
moder
ate
moder
measure
ate
adjective/verb suffix
Etymology
The word 'moderate' originates from the Latin verb 'moderari', which means to control or keep within measure. This verb is derived from the noun 'modus', signifying a measure, limit, or manner. The core concept has always been one of restraint and avoidance of extremes, moving from the literal idea of physical measurement to the abstract governance of behavior and opinion. The '-ate' suffix was attached to form an adjective and verb describing the state or action of being within proper bounds, a meaning that has remained consistent from its classical origins to its modern political and general usage.
Analysis
Structure: moder (measure) + ate (adjective/verb suffix)
'moder' is from Latin 'moderatus' (the past participle of 'moderari', meaning to control, regulate, restrain), itself from 'modus' meaning measure, manner. The suffix '-ate' is a Latin-derived suffix used to form adjectives meaning 'characterized by' and verbs meaning 'to act upon'.
Examples
The restaurant serves food at moderate prices.
He is known for his moderate views on economic reform.
The wind is expected to moderate by tomorrow evening.