Hooldatud

Hooldatud is an Estonian adjective formed as the past passive participle of the verb hooldama, meaning to take care of or to maintain. It describes something that has been kept in good condition through upkeep and care. English equivalents include well-kept, well-maintained, tidy, or cultivated. The word is commonly used attributively, before a noun, as in hooldatud aed (a well-kept garden), hooldatud maja (a well-maintained house), or hooldatud ilme (a neat appearance). It can describe landscapes, buildings, clothing, or personal appearance, and is frequent in real estate, design, and journalism contexts.

Hooldatud declines like other Estonian adjectives, agreeing with the noun in number and case. For example, it appears as hooldatud aed in the singular nominative, and changes form to fit other cases and numbers as required.

Etymology and related forms: the word comes from the verb hooldama (to care for) with the participial suffix -datud, yielding a sense of “care-for-ness” or “maintained.” Related terms include hooldus (maintenance), hoolitsema (to take care), and the opposite hooldamatu or hooldamata (uncared for, unmaintained).

Usage notes: hooldatud conveys a neutral to positive assessment of upkeep and regular maintenance. It is commonly used in descriptions of property, public spaces, and appearances, though its tone can vary with context.