reconfigurable
UK[ˌriːkənˈfɪɡərəbl̩]US[ˌriːkənˈfɪɡjərəbl̩]
adj
Capable of being rearranged or having its structure changed, especially in computing or engineering contexts.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
configur
able
re
again
configur
arrange
able
capable of
Etymology
The word 'reconfigurable' is a modern technical term built from classical components. Its core, 'configur', traces back to the Latin figura, meaning "form" or "shape," which itself originates from the PIE root dheigh- meaning "to form, build." The prefix 're-' adds the sense of repetition or return, a common function from Latin. The suffix '-able' is a productive adjectival ending from Latin, indicating capacity. Thus, the literal morpheme sequence "again-arrange-capable of" logically evolved into the modern abstract meaning of a system or device designed to be capable of having its arrangement altered multiple times.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + configur (arrange) + able (capable of)
- re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
- configur: Derived from Latin configurare (to shape, form, arrange), from com- (together) + figura (form, shape). In this word, it functions as the core verb root.
- able: From Latin -abilis, a suffix forming adjectives meaning "capable of, fit for, or worthy of" the action of the verb.
Examples
The modular furniture is easily reconfigurable to suit different room layouts.
A reconfigurable antenna can adapt its radiation pattern based on the signal environment.
The software uses a reconfigurable logic gate array for maximum flexibility in circuit design.