How Do You Spell VERTIGINOUS?

Pronunciation: [vɜːtˈɪd͡ʒɪnəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "vertiginous" is not intuitive, but it follows a consistent pattern in English. The initial "v" is pronounced as /v/ and is followed by the digraph "er", which represents the sound /ɜr/. The "t" is followed by "i", which is pronounced as /ɪ/, and then another "g" which represents the sound /dʒ/. The ending "-inous" is pronounced as /ɪnəs/. Therefore, the word is pronounced as /vəˈtɪdʒɪnəs/. Despite its challenging spelling, "vertiginous" is a useful word that refers to a feeling of dizziness or disorientation.

VERTIGINOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Vertiginous is an adjective that derives from the Latin word "vertiginosus," which means "whirling" or "rotating." The term is used to describe something that produces a sense of dizziness or disorientation, typically relating to heights or extreme steepness.

   In its literal sense, vertiginous refers to a high or steep place that induces a feeling of dizziness or loss of stability. It can describe a towering mountain peak, a precipice, or a tall building that leaves one feeling lightheaded and unsteady. Figuratively, vertiginous can be applied to situations, emotions, or experiences that evoke a similar feeling of unsteadiness or confusion. For instance, a fast-paced, chaotic plot in a novel or film could be described as vertiginous, as it keeps the audience on the edge of their seat, mentally and emotionally rattled.

   Furthermore, this term can also be used to describe a rapid change or succession of events that induces a sense of dizziness or uncertainty. For example, a person may feel vertiginous when faced with a sudden cascade of problems or challenges that they must address all at once, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and off-balance.

   Overall, vertiginous encompasses the notion of intense, disorienting, and unsteady sensations, whether they are physical, emotional, or situational in nature.

2. Relating to or suffering from vertigo.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Giddy; affected with vertigo.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for VERTIGINOUS

• certiginous
• bertiginous
• gertiginous
• fertiginous
• vwrtiginous
• vsrtiginous
• vdrtiginous
• vrrtiginous
• v4rtiginous
• v3rtiginous
• veetiginous
• vedtiginous
• veftiginous
• vettiginous
• ve5tiginous
• ve4tiginous
• verriginous
• verfiginous
• triginous
• verticilous
• vortiginouss
• verigious
• Vortijinous
• Centiginous
• viriginous
• vertiginoss

Etymology of VERTIGINOUS

The word "vertiginous" originated from the Latin roots "vertigo" and "vertiginōsus".

"Vertigo" comes from the Latin verb "vertere", meaning "to turn". In Latin, "vertigo" specifically referred to a spinning or whirling movement, either in a literal or figurative sense. It eventually expanded to encompass the sense of dizziness or a disorienting sensation.

"Vertiginōsus" is an adjective derived from "vertigo". It describes something that is characterized by or induces dizziness or a spinning sensation.

Over time, "vertiginous" emerged as the English adjective derived from the Latin roots. It refers to something that is dizzying, causing a sensation of spinning, or having a great height or steepness, often associated with a feeling of dizziness.

Similar spelling word for VERTIGINOUS

• verdigris.