outsize
UK[ˈaʊtsaɪz]US[ˈaʊtsaɪz]
adj
much larger than usual or than the standard size
n
an unusually large size or a thing of such a size
Morpheme Breakdown
out
size
out
size
Etymology
the word 'outsize' is a modern english compound formed from the native english prefix 'out-' and the noun 'size'. the prefix 'out-', with its old english origins, carries the sense of exceeding or going beyond a norm. the noun 'size' entered english via anglo-norman and old french, deriving from a legal term related to fixing an amount. by the 19th century, these elements combined to create an adjective and noun specifically denoting dimensions that surpass the ordinary or standard. the logic is transparent: something that is 'out-size' is literally 'beyond the standard size'.
Analysis
Structure: out + size
- out (prefix): from old english 'ūt', meaning 'out, beyond, external'. functions as an intensifying or comparative prefix indicating excess or surpassing.
- size (root): from old french 'sise', a shortened form of 'assise' meaning 'ordinance, act of fixing', and ultimately from latin 'assidēre' (to sit beside, settle). in this context, it functions as the nominal base meaning 'dimensions, magnitude'.
Examples
the company specializes in outsize clothing for tall and big men.
she carried an outsize handbag that could fit all her books.
his outsize personality made him the center of attention at every gathering.