-graphy
Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary
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[edit] English
[edit] Etymology
From Ancient Greek γράφω (graphō), “‘I write’”), via Latin graphia. It often functions literally as a reference to writing (e.g. calligraphy, cartography, biography). However, it also has evolved to denote a field of study, particularly studies that involve some degree of collecting, cataloging and/or surveying (e.g. geography, demography, oceanography).
Of special note, -ography and -igraphy are not formal suffixes bearing separate connotations. The -o- (the thematic vowel) and -i- are distinct Greek suffixes.
The ultimate origin of γράφειν (aorist γράψαι; Doric also γρόφω) "incise, write" (compare γλύφειν "carve", whence glyph) is from a PIE root *gerbh-, cognate to OE ceorfan (“‘incise, cut’”), MHG kerben and OCS žrěbii "lot" (originally probably a stick with carved markings). It has many derivations within Greek, such as γραφή "incision, inscription", adjective γραφικός (graphic), γράμματα "letters" (grammar), γράφημα (grapheme), γραμμός "the act of writing", γραφεύς (γροφεύς) and γραπτήρ "scribe".
[edit] Suffix
-graphy
- something written or represented in the specified manner, or about a specified subject
