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there are some diminutive suffixes in english
See, I knew my little old light (lighty? ) wasn't shining brightly enough, Helen.
Indeed, the "-ette" ending from the French (bless those Normans) pervades English, as also in caravanette, maisonette, teat pipette, errrrm that's all I can think of at present.
Didn't know that "smithers" meant anything, but have used the phrase "blown to smithereens" lots. And Maureen being a diminutive Maura is also news to me, so thanks for that.
word endings that indicate a female
Applies a lot to names, doesn't it? George >> Georgina, Stephen >> Stephanie, Fred(eric) >> Frederica, Max(imilian) >> Maxine, David >> Davina.
I wonder if once upon a time these may have provided a means for a proud (and dominant )father to name a daughter after himself.
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