infinitive

English

/ɪnˈfɪnɪtɪv/

noun
Definitions
  • (grammar) the infinitive mood or mode (a grammatical mood)
  • (grammar) A non-finite verb form considered neutral with respect to inflection; depending on language variously found used with auxiliary verbs, in subordinate clauses, or acting as a gerund, and often as the dictionary form.
  • (grammar) A verbal noun formed from the infinitive of a verb.

Etymology

Derived from Middle French infinitif derived from infinitivus (unlimited, indefinite) derived from Latin infinitus (unlimited, boundless, infinite).

Origin

Latin

infinitus

Gloss

unlimited, boundless, infinite

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms