moisturize
UK[ˈmɔɪstʃəraɪz]US[ˈmɔɪstʃəraɪz]
v
to make something, especially skin, less dry by adding moisture
Morpheme Breakdown
moist
ur
ize
moist
damp
ur
verb-forming suffix
ize
verb-forming suffix
Etymology
the word 'moisturize' is a modern english formation, constructed by combining the adjective 'moist' with two successive verb-forming suffixes. the core element 'moist' traces back to old french 'moiste', which likely originated from latin 'muccidus', meaning moldy or musty, itself from 'mucus'. the addition of the 'ur' suffix, seen in other words like 'labour'/'labor', helps transition the adjective into a verbal base. finally, the productive suffix '-ize', borrowed from greek via latin, completes the verb, imparting the meaning 'to make moist'. this layered construction exemplifies how english builds specific, often commercial or cosmetic, terminology by logically assembling morphemes of diverse origins to create a clear causative action.
Analysis
Structure: moist (damp) + ur (verb-forming suffix) + ize (verb-forming suffix)
'moist' is from middle english, from old french 'moiste', meaning damp or slightly wet. 'ur' is a latin-derived suffix often used in english to form verbs from adjectives or nouns. 'ize' is a verb-forming suffix from greek '-izein', via latin '-izare', meaning to make, to become, or to subject to an action.
Examples
you should moisturize your skin daily to prevent dryness.
this lotion is designed to moisturize and protect sensitive skin.
the humidifier helps to moisturize the air in the room during winter.