Incipient
Adjective
- In an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop.
- (Of a person) Developing into a specified type or role.
Example Sentences
“The incipient storm clouds hinted that the picnic might not last long.”
“The project was still in its incipient stage, but everyone could sense its potential.”
“Even as a teenager, he was an incipient diplomat, smoothing over every argument between friends.”
Word Origin
Latin, late 16th century
Why this word?
The original usage of “incipient” in the 16th century was as a noun denoting a beginner. It has since evolved into an adjective, and the meaning of “incipient” changes slightly depending on whether it’s being used to describe a thing or a person. For a person, “incipient” means they have the potential to develop into the role. For a thing, “incipient” means it’s in the early stages.
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