-atory

adjective suffix

-a·​to·​ry
əˌtōrē,
-tȯr-,
-ri;
especially British ətəri or ə‧tri or sometimes when an unstressed syllable precedes ¦ātəri or ¦ā‧tri
: of, belonging to, or connected with
perspiratory
: serving or tending to
amendatory

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin -atorius, from -atus -ate + -orius -ory

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near -atory

Cite this Entry

“-atory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/-atory. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!