Ringlike

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Having the form of a circle or loop that appears encircling
2. Exhibiting a shape that resembles a band or annulus in configuration
3. Having the shape or outline similar to a circular band surrounding something

Etymology: "Ringlike" is a straightforward compound: the noun "ring" joined to the suffix "-like", meaning "resembling or having the form of". Its two parts have long, separate histories. "Ring" comes from Old English "hring", inherited from a Proto-Germanic word "hringaz", and it has meant a circular band since those early days. The suffix traces back to Proto-Germanic "līkaz", meaning "body" or "form", from the same root that gives English "lich" in words like "lich-gate" and the sense of "having the shape of." Over time, "-like" was attached to nouns to mean "similar to" or "in the manner of." Joining the two produces an adjective that describes anything resembling a circle or band. Because the suffix is so productive, English speakers can form this kind of description on the spot, so "ringlike" needs no special coinage story; it is simply a transparent combination of two native elements.

Synonyms: circular, round