formative
UK: ˈfɔːmətɪv | US: ˈfɔːrmətɪv
adj. relating to formation or development
adj. influential in shaping character or ideas
n. (linguistics) a derivational affix that forms new words
The word formative traces back to Latin formativus, combining forma (shape) and -ativus (a suffix denoting tendency or relation). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core sense of "shaping" or "developing." The term evolved to describe both physical formation (e.g., geological processes) and abstract influence (e.g., education). Its dual emphasis on structure and influence reflects the Latin root’s versatility.
Childhood is a formative period for cognitive development.
The teacher played a formative role in her students’ careers.
Glaciers are formative forces in landscape creation.
"-ish" is a formative suffix in words like "childish."
His travels were formative in shaping his worldview.