successful

UK: səkˈsɛsf(ə)l | US: səkˈsɛsfəl

Definition

  1. adj. achieving desired results or prosperity

  2. adj. having attained wealth, fame, or social status

  3. adj. (of an action) resulting in success

Structure
success <achievement>ful <full of>
Etymology

successful = success<achievement> + ful<full of>

  • success: From Latin successus ("advance, good result"), from succedere ("come after, prosper"), combining sub- ("up to") + cedere ("go"). Originally implied a favorable outcome.
  • ful: Old English suffix -ful ("full of"), used to form adjectives indicating abundance or possession of a quality.

Etymology Origin:
The word successful emerged in the 16th century, blending the Latin-derived success (denoting a positive outcome) with the Germanic suffix -ful. This hybrid structure reflects English’s tendency to merge Latin precision with Germanic simplicity. The core idea—being full of success—logically evolved to describe prosperity or effectiveness.

Examples

  1. She became a successful entrepreneur by age 30.

  2. The campaign was successful in raising awareness.

  3. His successful career inspired many young artists.

  4. A successful experiment confirmed the theory.

  5. They worked hard to build a successful partnership.