negative
UK[ˈneɡətɪv]US[ˈneɡətɪv]
adj
expressing denial, refusal, or prohibition; meaning 'no' or 'not'
adj
lacking positive or constructive qualities; pessimistic, harmful, or undesirable
adj
(of a scientific test) showing that a substance or condition is not present
n
a word, statement, or concept that expresses denial, refusal, or opposition
n
(photography) an image with reversed light and dark areas, from which a positive print is made
Morpheme Breakdown
neg
ative
neg
deny
ative
adjective-forming suffix
Etymology
the word 'negative' originates from the latin verb 'negare', meaning 'to deny or refuse'. this verb itself is thought to derive from the proto-indo-european root 'ne-', a fundamental particle of negation meaning 'not'. the latin suffix '-ativus' was added to form the late latin 'negativus', meaning 'that which denies'. entering english via old french in the late 14th century, the term's core logic of expressing denial expanded metaphorically. it evolved to describe the absence of positive qualities, the result of a test indicating 'not present', and the reversed photographic image, all preserving the foundational concept of negation or absence inherent in its ancient root.
Analysis
Structure: neg (deny) + ative (adjective-forming suffix)
- neg: from latin 'negare' meaning 'to deny'. it functions as the core root carrying the sense of denial.
- ative: a latin-derived suffix ('-ativus') used to form adjectives meaning 'of, relating to, or tending to'.
Examples
she gave a negative answer to the proposal.
constant negative criticism can damage a person's self-esteem.
the medical test came back negative, which was a great relief.