facile
UK: ˈfæsaɪl | US: ˈfæsəl
adj. (of speech, writing, or ideas) superficially plausible but lacking depth or sincerity
adj. achieved with little effort; effortless
adj. (archaic) mild or agreeable in manner
facile = fac<do/make> + ile<adjective suffix>
- fac (from Latin facere, meaning "to do/make")
- ile (Latin adjectival suffix indicating capability or tendency)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin facilis ("easy to do"), facile entered English in the 15th century via Old French. The root fac- (as in factory, manufacture) reflects action or creation, while -ile conveys a quality (e.g., fragile, versatile). The word originally described tasks requiring minimal effort but later acquired a pejorative sense of superficiality.
His facile explanation ignored the complexity of the issue.
She won the game with facile elegance.
The politician’s facile promises failed to convince voters.
The artist’s facile brushstrokes belied years of practice.
(Archaic) His facile demeanor put the guests at ease.