-le


-le

suffix forming verbs denoting repeated or continuous action, often of a diminutive nature: twiddle; wriggle; wrestle. [from Middle English -len, Old English -lian, with similar significance]

-le

1. a suffix of verbs having a frequentative force: dazzle; twinkle. 2. a suffix of adjectives formed orig. on verbal stems and having the sense of “apt to”: brittle. 3. a noun suffix having orig. a diminutive meaning: bramble. 4. a noun suffix indicating agent or instrument: beadle; bridle; thimble. [Middle English -len, Old English -lian (v.); Middle English -el, Old English -ol (adj.); Middle English -el, Old English -il (diminutive); Middle English -el, Old English -ol, -ul (agent)]