-sy

English

Alternative forms

Etymology

Perhaps originally two distinct suffixes, one diminutive and the other adjectival; sources of both are uncertain.[1] If so, then equivalent to -s +‎ -y.

Suffix

-sy

  1. Suffix forming nouns or adjectives, sometimes diminutive and usually informal or jocular.
    (nouns): Betsy; footsy; mumsy; Patsy; popsy; tootsy
    (adjectives): artsy (or art + -s + -y);[2] cutesy; limpsy; mumsy; pudsy; teensy (from tiny)

Usage notes

Some state that the combination of -s and -y in certain words should perhaps be considered further instances of this suffix.[1]

antsy; gutsy

References
  1. “-sy”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged, Dictionary.com, LLC, 1995–present.
  2. “artsy”, in Dictionary.com Unabridged, Dictionary.com, LLC, 1995–present.: “art1 + -sy or art1 + -s3 + -y1”
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