valuable

UK: ˈvæljuəbl | US: ˈvæljuəbl

Definition

  1. adj. having great material or monetary worth

  2. adj. of great importance, usefulness, or merit

  3. n. (usually valuables) personal items of high worth, such as jewelry

Structure
valu <worth>able <capable of>
Etymology

valuable = valu<worth> + able<capable of>

  • valu (from Latin valere, meaning "to be strong, be worth") → Retains the core idea of "worth" in modern usage.
  • able (from Latin -abilis, a suffix forming adjectives meaning "capable of") → Indicates the capacity to possess worth.

Etymology Origin:
The word valuable emerged in the 16th century, combining the root valu (from Latin valere, reflecting strength or worth) with the suffix -able (denoting potential or capability). This fusion logically progressed from "capable of being valued" to its modern sense of "having significant worth." The term originally emphasized tangible worth (e.g., gold) but later expanded to abstract value (e.g., time, advice).

Examples

  1. This antique necklace is highly valuable due to its rarity.

  2. Her mentorship proved valuable for my career growth.

  3. Always store your valuables in a secure safe.

  4. Clean water is a valuable resource in arid regions.

  5. The scientist made a valuable contribution to the field of genetics.