-fico

Definition

-fico is a Latin suffix that is used to form verbs meaning 'to make' or 'to do.' It often appears in various derivatives to convey the sense of causing or producing a certain effect or state. Understanding this suffix helps in recognizing and forming words that imply action or transformation, particularly in contexts involving change or creation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. -fico is commonly seen in words like 'certifico' (to certify) and 'magnifico' (to magnify), where it indicates the act of making something into a particular state.
2. In some cases, -fico can also imply a transformation, as in 'liquefico' (to liquefy), where a solid state is turned into a liquid.
3. The suffix is versatile and can attach to both roots and other suffixes to create various meanings, enhancing vocabulary in both classical and modern languages.
4. It often appears in scientific terminology, especially in fields like chemistry and biology, to describe processes that change the form or state of substances.
5. Understanding -fico allows for better comprehension of complex words, as many terms in English and other languages borrow from Latin roots.

Review Questions

• How does the suffix -fico modify the meaning of base words in Latin?
  • -fico adds a dimension of action to base words, transforming them into verbs that imply making or causing something to be in a certain state. For example, when attached to 'magni-', it forms 'magnifico,' which means 'to make great' or 'to magnify.' This reflects how the addition of -fico not only changes the function of the word but also enriches its meaning by emphasizing transformation or creation.
• In what ways does the use of -fico contribute to vocabulary expansion in both classical and modern languages?
  • -fico plays a significant role in expanding vocabulary by allowing for the formation of new words that convey actions related to making or transforming. In classical Latin, it enabled speakers to articulate various processes and actions clearly. In modern languages, many terms derived from Latin continue to use this suffix, reflecting its influence on contemporary vocabulary, especially in academic, scientific, and technical contexts.
• Evaluate the impact of the suffix -fico on understanding scientific terminology derived from Latin.
  • -fico significantly impacts scientific terminology by providing clarity and specificity regarding actions related to processes or transformations. For instance, terms like 'liquefico' (to liquefy) or 'certifico' (to certify) illustrate how this suffix conveys precise meanings essential for scientific communication. By recognizing this pattern, one can decode complex scientific terms more effectively, leading to better comprehension and application within various scientific fields.

Related terms

Facere: The Latin verb meaning 'to do' or 'to make,' from which the suffix -fico derives.

Proficere: A Latin verb meaning 'to advance' or 'to benefit,' indicating progress or improvement, related to the idea of making something better.

Satisfacio: A Latin verb meaning 'to satisfy,' showing how the suffix -fico is used to denote the action of fulfilling a need or desire.