-ous

1 definition found

-ous - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  -ous \-ous\suff. [OF. -ous, us, -os, F. -eux, fr. L. -osus, and
     -us. Cf. -ose.]
     1. An adjective suffix meaning full of, abounding in, having,
        possessing the qualities of, like; as in gracious,
        abounding in grace; arduous, full of ardor; bulbous,
        having bulbs, bulblike; riotous, poisonous, piteous,
        joyous, etc.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. (Chem.) A suffix denoting that the element indicated by
        the name bearing it, has a valence lower than that denoted
        by the termination -ic; as, nitrous, mercurous, ferrous,
        sulphurous, etc., as contrasted with nitric, mercuric,
        ferric, sulphuric, etc.
        [1913 Webster]