-sy

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English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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Perhaps originally two distinct suffixes, one diminutive and the other adjectival; sources of both are uncertain.[1] If so, then equivalent to -s +‎ -y.

Suffix

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-sy

  1. Suffix forming nouns or adjectives, sometimes diminutive and usually informal or jocular.
    (nouns): Betsy; footsy; mumsy; Patsy; popsy; tootsy
    (adjectives): artsy (or art + -s + -y);[2] cutesy; limpsy; mumsy; pudsy; teensy (from tiny)

Usage notes

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Some state that the combination of -s and -y in certain words should perhaps be considered further instances of this suffix.[1]

antsy; gutsy

Derived terms

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References

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  1. 1.0 1.1 -sy”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged, Dictionary.com, LLC, 1995–present.
  2. ^ artsy”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged, Dictionary.com, LLC, 1995–present:art1 + -sy or art1 + -s3 + -y1

Anagrams

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