-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.
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.