redoubtable
UK[rɪˈdaʊtəbl]US[rɪˈdaʊtəbl]
adj
causing fear or alarm; formidable.
adj
worthy of respect or honor; commanding respect.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
doubt
able
re
again, back, against
doubt
to doubt, hesitate, fear
able
capable of, worthy of, tending to
Etymology
the word "redoubtable" entered english in the late 14th century from old french 'redoutable', based on the verb 'redouter' meaning "to dread". the old french term was formed from the prefix 're-' (expressing intensive force) and 'douter' (to fear, doubt). its latin ancestor is 'dubitare', meaning to waver or hesitate, which carries a sense of uncertainty and fear. thus, the literal sense of "to be greatly feared" evolved into the modern meanings of inspiring both fear and profound respect due to formidable power or character.
Analysis
Structure: re + doubt + able
- re: latin origin, a prefix meaning "again, back, against".
- doubt: from middle english 'doute', old french 'douter', latin 'dubitare' meaning "to doubt, hesitate, fear".
- able: from latin suffix '-abilis', forming adjectives meaning "capable of, worthy of, tending to".
Examples
the chess champion was a redoubtable opponent, having never lost a match.
she is a redoubtable advocate for social justice, respected by both allies and adversaries.
the fortress was considered redoubtable due to its imposing walls and strategic location.