-ics


a suffix of nouns that denote a body of facts, knowledge, principles, etc., usually corresponding to adjectives ending in -ic or -ical: ethics; physics; politics; tactics.

Origin of -ics

plural of -ic, representing Latin -ica (< Greek -ika, neuter plural of -ikos), as in rhētórica (plural) rhetoric book

usage note for -ics

Nouns ending in -ics that name fields of study, sciences, arts, professions, or the like are usually not preceded by an article and are used with a singular verb: Acoustics (the science) deals with sound. Politics (the art of government) fascinates me. In certain uses, often when preceded by a determiner like the, his, her, or their, most of these nouns can take a plural verb: The acoustics (the sound-reflecting qualities) of the hall are splendid. Their politics (political opinions) have antagonized everyone.

Words nearby -ics

British Dictionary definitions for -ics

-ics

suffix forming nouns (functioning as singular)

indicating a science, art, or matters relating to a particular subject aeronautics; politics
indicating certain activities or practices acrobatics

Word Origin for -ics

plural of -ic, representing Latin -ica, from Greek -ika, as in mathēmatika mathematics

Medical definitions for -ics

-ics

suff.

Science; art; study; knowledge; skill:pharmaceutics.
Actions, activities, or practices of:macrobiotics.