striate

UK: ˈstraɪeɪt | US: ˈstraɪeɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to mark with striations (parallel grooves or ridges)

  2. adj. marked with striations

Structure
stri <line>ate <verb/adjective suffix>stri <line>ate <verb/adjective suffix>
Etymology

striate = stri<line> + ate<verb/adjective suffix>

  • stri<line>: From Latin stria (furrow, groove), related to striatus (grooved).
  • ate<verb/adjective suffix>: A suffix forming verbs (e.g., "activate") or adjectives (e.g., "desolate"), from Latin -atus.

Etymology Origin:
The word striate traces back to Latin striatus, meaning "furrowed" or "grooved," derived from stria (a line or channel). The suffix -ate was added in English to form both the verb (to mark with lines) and the adjective (marked with lines). The logic is straightforward: the root stri- conveys linearity, while -ate adapts it into an actionable or descriptive form.

Examples
  1. The glacier striated the bedrock with deep parallel grooves.

  2. Microscopic examination revealed a striate pattern on the leaf surface.

  3. The artist used a fine brush to striate the painting with delicate lines.

  4. Striate muscles are characterized by their banded appearance under a microscope.

  5. Erosion can striate rocks over long periods, creating unique geological formations.