-ish

adjective suffix

: almost or approximately

Full Definition of -ISH

: of, relating to, or being —chiefly in adjectives indicating nationality or ethnic group <Finnish>

a : characteristic of <boyish> <Pollyannaish>

b : inclined or liable to <bookish> <qualmish>

a : having a touch or trace of <purplish> : somewhat <darkish>

b : having the approximate age of <fortyish>

Middle English, from Old English -isc; akin to Old High German -isc, -ish, Greek -iskos, diminutive suffix

-ISH Defined for Kids

adjective suffix \ish\

: of, relating to, or being <Finnish>

: characteristic of <boyish>

: somewhat <purplish>

: about (as an age or a time)

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