-esco

Definition

-esco is a Latin suffix used to form adjectives indicating a state or process, often suggesting a transformation or development. It connects words by implying that something is becoming or relating to a specific quality, often found in terms that express growth, change, or origin.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. -esco is commonly seen in English derivatives such as 'picturesque' or 'burlesque,' which maintain the sense of transformation or characteristic.
2. The suffix -esco can imply a certain quality, like elegance in 'picturesque' or exaggeration in 'burlesque'.
3. -esco often describes the artistic qualities or stylistic elements of the subject it modifies.
4. The use of -esco can be traced back to classical Latin roots, where it was used to denote change or progression.
5. In modern usage, words ending in -esco can sometimes convey a sense of nostalgia or romanticism related to their root meanings.

Review Questions

• How does the suffix -esco modify the meaning of words it is attached to, and can you provide examples?
  • The suffix -esco modifies words by indicating a process of becoming or a state associated with a particular quality. For instance, 'picturesque' suggests that something is becoming visually attractive like a picture, while 'burlesque' conveys a sense of exaggerated imitation. This transformation highlights how the addition of -esco shifts the original meaning toward an aspect of change or development.
• Discuss the historical significance of the -esco suffix and its influence on modern languages, particularly English.
  • Historically, the suffix -esco emerged from Latin and has significantly influenced modern languages, especially English. Words derived from -esco have been adopted into English literature and art criticism to describe styles and qualities. The aesthetic implications of this suffix allow speakers to express ideas related to beauty, transformation, and artistic expression, thereby enriching the language with nuanced descriptions.
• Evaluate how understanding the suffix -esco can enhance comprehension of artistic terminology and its applications across various fields.
  • Understanding the suffix -esco can greatly enhance comprehension of artistic terminology by providing insights into how words convey specific qualities and transformations. For example, recognizing how 'fresco' indicates both technique and process allows one to appreciate art's nuances. This knowledge helps articulate concepts in art history, literature, and even architecture, enabling deeper analysis and appreciation of stylistic elements and their evolution across different disciplines.

Related terms

Fresco: A technique of mural painting executed on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to become an integral part of the wall.

Grotesque: A style of decorative art characterized by fanciful or exaggerated forms, often combining human and animal figures in a bizarre manner.

Bravura: A term used in music and literature to describe a showy or bold style, reflecting a spirited and daring execution.