augmentative

An augmentative is a term used in linguistics to describe a derivational form that enlarges, intensifies, or otherwise augments the meaning of a base word. It can indicate physical size, greater degree, or heightened quality, and its exact scope depends on the language and context. Augmentatives are typically formed with affixes, though some languages use lexicalized words or compounding to achieve a similar effect.

In many Romance languages, augmentatives are common and are often created by suffixation. For example, in Spanish an augmentative can be produced with suffixes such as -ón or -ote, yielding forms like hombrón (big or strong man) or casón (big house). Italian frequently uses the suffix -one to indicate a larger version of a thing, as in gatton e or casone (big cat, big house). Portuguese also employs suffixes such as -ão to convey a larger or more impressive version of something, as in casão (big house) or gatão (big cat or a striking man in some contexts). The exact nuance—size, strength, or prominence—varies by language and usage.

The augmentative often carries evaluative or connotative nuance, ranging from affectionate or humorous to pejorative or formidable, depending on tone, formality, and cultural context. It is typically contrasted with the diminutive, which signals smallness or lesser degree. In many languages, both forms are productive parallel developments within the same morphological system, contributing to a richer expressive range for describing objects, people, or qualities. See also: diminutive, derivational morphology, affixation.