Infinitive

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ɪnˈfɪnɪtɪv/, /ɪnˈfɪnÉ™tɪv/

Origin

From Middle French infinitif, from Late Latin infinitivus ("unlimited, indefinite"), from Latin infinitus ("unlimited, infinite")

Full definition of infinitive

Noun

1. (grammar) A non-finite verb form considered neutral with respect to inflection; depending on language variously found used with auxilary verbs, in subordinate clauses, or acting as a gerund, and often as the dictionary form.
2. (grammar) A verbal noun formed from the infinitive of a verb.

Adjective

1. (grammar) Formed with the infinitive.
2. Unlimited; not bounded or restricted; undefined.
• Cunningham's Sermons (quoted in 1823, The Edinburgh Christian Instructor, volume 23, page 328)... to search out in some higher region of infinitive space a spot where it was impossible for defilement to follow them ...----