occasional
UK: əˈkeɪʒən(ə)l | US: əˈkeɪʒən(ə)l
adj. happening or done sometimes, but not regularly
adj. intended for a special event or situation
adj. (of furniture or clothing) made or used for particular occasions
occasional = occasion<event> + al<adjective suffix>
- occasion <event>: From Latin occasio ("opportunity, juncture"), derived from occidere ("to fall," originally referring to celestial bodies setting, later metaphorically extended to "occurrence").
- al <adjective suffix>: A common suffix in English borrowed from Latin -alis, used to form adjectives meaning "pertaining to."
Etymology Origin:
The word "occasional" traces back to the Latin occasio, which originally described celestial events (like the setting of the sun) but evolved to mean "a timely opportunity" or "event." The suffix -al was added in Middle English to form an adjective meaning "related to specific events." Over time, it broadened to describe things happening irregularly or reserved for special moments.
She enjoys an occasional glass of wine with dinner.
The room was furnished with occasional chairs for guests.
He works as an occasional consultant for the company.
The magazine publishes occasional articles on rare books.
We’ve had occasional rain showers all week.