gerundadj

Gerundadj is a term used in some linguistic discussions to describe the attributive use of gerunds as modifiers for another noun. In this sense, a gerund behaves like a noun that directly describes a property, purpose, or activity associated with the head noun, yielding phrases that function similarly to descriptive adjectives or noun adjuncts.

Examples commonly cited include swimming pool, cooking oil, running shoes, and dancing class. In these phrases, the -ing form, which originates as a verbal noun (a gerund), appears in front of the head noun to convey a characteristic or intended use rather than to form a simple noun compound. The exact interpretation can vary: some analyses treat these as noun adjuncts (attributive nouns), while others analyze them as adjectival uses of gerunds or as a subset of participial constructions.

Relations to other terms are a matter of theoretical stance. Many grammars distinguish gerunds (verbal nouns) from present participles (verbal adjectives) and from adjectives in attributive position. The category often overlaps with noun adjuncts and with compound noun formation. Because the terminology is not standardized, some linguists would classify gerundadj phrases under existing labels such as gerunds, verbal nouns, or noun modifiers, rather than as a separate, fixed category.

Usage and study of gerundadj typically focus on cross-linguistic similarities, differences in word order, and the semantic roles (purpose, material, activity) encoded by these modifiers. The term remains informal and is mainly used to discuss patterns of noun-modifier semantics in English and related languages.