adjoin

UK: əˈdʒɔɪn | US: əˈdʒɔɪn

Definition

  1. vt. to be next to or in contact with

  2. vi. to be adjacent or contiguous

Structure
ad <to, toward>join <connect>
Etymology

adjoin = ad<to, toward> + join<connect>

  • ad: A Latin prefix meaning "to" or "toward," often indicating direction or addition.
  • join: Derived from Latin iungere (to connect, unite), retaining its core meaning of linking or combining.

Etymology Origin:
The word "adjoin" entered Middle English from Old French ajoindre, which itself came from Latin adiungere (ad- + iungere). The prefix ad- emphasizes proximity or attachment, while join reflects the act of connecting. Over time, the term evolved to describe physical adjacency or close association, preserving its logical spatial connotation.

Examples

  1. The two gardens adjoin at the back fence.

  2. Our office building adjoins a shopping mall.

  3. The countries adjoin along a narrow river.

  4. The kitchen adjoins the dining room for convenience.

  5. Make sure the pieces adjoin neatly before gluing.