likainen

Likainen is a Finnish word that primarily functions as an adjective meaning "dirty" or "filthy." It is also found as a surname in Finland.

Etymology and usage: Likainen derives from the noun lika, meaning dirt, with the adjectival suffix -inen that forms descriptors such as "characterized by" or "having the quality of." In modern Finnish, likainen agrees with the noun it modifies in number and case and can occur in both predicative and attributive positions. Examples include likainen talo (a dirty house) and Talo on likainen (The house is dirty).

Surname usage: Likainen occurs as a rare Finnish surname. Like many descriptive surnames in Finnish onomastics, it likely originated from an old nickname or descriptor associated with a family. It is uncommon outside Finland, and there are no widely documented notable persons bearing the name in major reference works.

See also: Finnish language; Finnish surnames.