identifiable

UK: /aɪˌden.tɪˈfaɪ.ə.bəl/ | US: /aɪˌden.t̬ɪˈfaɪ.ə.bəl/

Definition

  1. adj. capable of being recognized or distinguished

  2. adj. possible to identify or classify

Structure
ident <same>ify <make>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "identifiable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "ident" (from Latin idem, meaning "same")—the core idea of sameness or recognition.
  2. "ify" (a verb-forming suffix from Latin -ficare, meaning "to make")—turning the root into an action.
  3. "able" (from Latin -abilis, meaning "capable of")—indicating the potential for the action.
    The progression reflects a logical shift from "sameness" → "making something the same" → "capable of being made recognizable."
Examples

  1. The suspect was easily identifiable due to his distinctive tattoo.

  2. The species has identifiable markings on its wings.

  3. The document lacks identifiable signatures.

  4. Her handwriting is barely identifiable after years of change.

  5. The problem must be clearly identifiable before solving it.