The word “ample” is a commonly used term in the English language. It is often used to describe the abundance or sufficiency of something. The word has a rich history and has evolved over time to take on different meanings. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of ample, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The word ample is an adjective that describes something that is plentiful or sufficient. It can also be used to describe something that is large or spacious. The term can be used to describe a variety of things, from the amount of food on a plate to the size of a room.
Origin
The word ample has its roots in the Latin word “amplus,” which means “large” or “abundant.” The word was first used in English in the 15th century and has been in use ever since.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, ample means “enough or more than enough; plentiful.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines ample as “plenty or enough in size, extent, or capacity.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines ample as “enough or more than enough, especially of something that is good.”
Associations
Ample is often associated with abundance, sufficiency, and generosity. It can also be associated with spaciousness, as in the case of an ample room or an ample parking lot.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of ample include abundant, plentiful, sufficient, generous, spacious, and extensive.
Antonyms
Antonyms of ample include insufficient, inadequate, meager, scarce, and cramped.
The same root words
The word ample shares its roots with other words in the English language, such as amplification, ampleness, amplify, and amplitude.
Example Sentences
- The buffet offered an ample selection of dishes.
- The spacious living room provided ample space for entertaining guests.
- The company provided ample training for its employees.
- The generous donation was ample to cover the cost of the project.
- The small office felt cramped, but the ample windows provided plenty of natural light.