(in Latin grammar) an adjective formed from a verb, expressing the desirability of the activity denoted by the verb
adjective
2.
of or relating to the gerund or gerundive
Derived forms
gerundival (ˌdʒɛrənˈdaɪvəl)
adjective
gerundively (geˈrundively)
adverb
Word origin
C17: from Late Latin gerundīvus, from gerundiumgerund
gerundive in American English
(dʒəˈrʌndɪv)
noun Grammar
1.
in Latin, a verbal adjective with a typical gerund stem form, used as a future passive participle expressing duty, necessity, fitness, etc. (Ex.: delenda in delenda est Carthago, “Carthage must be destroyed”)
2.
in other languages, any of various forms analogous to this
Derived forms
gerundival (ˌgerunˈdival) (ˌdʒɛrənˈdaɪvəl)
adjective
Word origin
ME gerundif < LL gerundivus < gerundium: see gerund