traditional

UK: trəˈdɪʃənəl | US: trəˈdɪʃənəl

Definition
  1. adj. relating to or based on customs, beliefs, or practices passed down through generations

  2. adj. conforming to long-established cultural or historical patterns

  3. adj. (of art, music, etc.) following classical or conventional styles

Structure
tradition <handing down>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

tradition<handing down> + al<adjective suffix>

  • tradition: From Latin traditio ("handing over, delivery"), derived from tradere ("to deliver, hand over"), combining trans- ("across") + dare ("to give"). Originally referred to the transmission of knowledge or customs.
  • al: A suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -alis, indicating "pertaining to."

Etymology Origin:
The word traditional traces back to the Latin concept of traditio, which emphasized the act of passing something down—whether tangible (like an object) or intangible (like beliefs). Over time, tradition evolved to signify cultural continuity, and the suffix -al solidified its role as an adjective describing things rooted in inherited practices. The logic reflects a societal emphasis on preserving collective memory.

Examples
  1. The festival celebrates traditional dances from the region.

  2. She prefers traditional medicine over modern treatments.

  3. The dish is made using a traditional recipe from the 19th century.

  4. His views on education are quite traditional.

  5. Traditional Japanese architecture emphasizes harmony with nature.