Sündiv

Sündiv is an Estonian adjective meaning "born" or "congenital." It is formed from the root sün(d)-, related to birth, with the common suffix -iv used to create adjectives indicating a quality connected to the root. The word expresses that a trait, condition, or characteristic originates at birth or is inherent from birth.

In usage, sündiv can describe innate or inborn qualities, as opposed to those acquired later in life. In medical or scientific contexts it may refer to congenital conditions or innate abilities, though more precise terms are often preferred depending on the context. In broader or literary writing, the word can convey a sense of naturalness or spontaneity tied to origin.

Grammar-wise, sündiv behaves like other Estonian adjectives, agreeing with the noun it modifies in number and case. It can be used predicatively (for example, after a linking verb) or attributively before a noun. In everyday language, speakers may choose synonyms such as loomulik or inherent when they want to emphasize naturalness rather than birth origin, but sündiv remains a valid and recognized term within standard Estonian.

See also: sünnitus (childbirth), sünnitud (related participle form), sünne (birth).