pimply
UK[ˈpɪmpli]US[ˈpɪmpli]
adj
Covered with or characterized by pimples, especially on the face.
Morpheme Breakdown
pimple
y
pimple
a small inflamed spot on the skin
y
adjective-forming suffix
Etymology
The word 'pimply' is a straightforward English derivation. Its core, 'pimple,' entered Middle English, likely from a West Germanic source related to Old English piplian meaning 'to break out in pustules.' The adjectival suffix '-y,' with its origins in Old English '-ig,' is a prolific and native English morpheme that attaches to nouns to create descriptive terms meaning "having the quality of" or "resembling." Therefore, 'pimply' literally means "having the characteristics of pimples" or "full of pimples," a meaning that has remained transparent and unchanged from its formation to modern usage.
Analysis
Structure: pimple (a small inflamed spot on the skin) + y (adjective-forming suffix)
- pimple: Of Middle English origin, likely from a Germanic root; denotes a small, inflamed swelling of the skin.
- y: A native English suffix (from Old English -ig) used to form adjectives meaning "characterized by" or "full of."
Examples
The pimply teenager was self-conscious about his complexion.
She recalled her awkward, pimply adolescence with a shudder.
The character was portrayed with a pimply chin to emphasize his youth.