scrutable

the word 'scrutable' is a relatively modern english formation, coined in the early 17th century. it is derived from the latin verb 'scrutari', meaning 'to search or examine carefully', which itself may be related to 'scruta', meaning 'trash' or 'broken items', referring to the act of rummaging through rubbish. the suffix '-able', of latin origin via french, denotes capability. therefore, the literal construction is 'capable of being examined or searched'. this meaning evolved from the physical act of sifting through items to the abstract intellectual act of being able to be understood or deciphered through careful analysis. its more common antonym, 'inscrutable', predates it and was the catalyst for its creation.

Structure: scrut (examine) + able (capable of) scrut (from latin 'scrutari', meaning 'to search, examine') + able (from latin '-abilis', an adjective-forming suffix meaning 'capable of, fit for').