28 Common List of Nouns with the Suffix You Should Know

Understanding how suffixes work in the English language is a crucial part of mastering grammar. Suffixes are added to the end of words to change their meaning or grammatical function. For instance, they can turn verbs into nouns, adjectives into nouns, and so on. A noun is a person, place, thing, or idea, and by attaching a suffix to a base word, we can create new nouns that add more specificity or context.

In this article, we will explore a list of nouns with suffixes, breaking down common suffixes and how they transform words. Additionally, we will discuss how these nouns are used in sentences and why understanding suffixes can be helpful for both writing and speech. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of how to use these nouns and how they fit into various contexts.

What Are Suffixes?

Before diving into the list, it’s important to clarify what a suffix is and how it functions in the English language.

Definition of a Suffix:

A suffix is a group of letters placed at the end of a word to change its meaning or function. For example, adding -ness to an adjective like “happy” turns it into a noun: happiness.

Common Types of Suffixes:

1. Noun-forming Suffixes: These suffixes change a word into a noun.

   • Examples: -er, -ness, -ship

2. Adjective-forming Suffixes: These suffixes convert a word into an adjective.

   • Examples: -ful, -ous, -ic

3. Verb-forming Suffixes: These suffixes create verbs from adjectives or nouns.

   • Examples: -ize, -ate

4. Adverb-forming Suffixes: These suffixes turn adjectives into adverbs.

   • Examples: -ly, -ward

Suffixes allow us to enrich the language, creating a range of different word forms for various purposes.

Why Is Learning Suffixes Important?

Understanding how suffixes work helps with:

• Spelling: Knowing how to spell derivative nouns correctly.

• Vocabulary expansion: Expanding your word choice and understanding.

• Grammatical accuracy: Forming proper nouns, adjectives, and verbs for precise communication.

Now, let’s explore the most common noun-forming suffixes and the list of nouns that are derived from them.

Nouns with the Suffix “-acy” / “-cy”

This suffix often turns adjectives or verbs into nouns, expressing a state or condition. The meanings of these nouns usually refer to a quality or state of being.

Example Nouns:

• Privacy

• Accuracy

• Legacy

• Fallacy

• Adultery

• Delicacy

• Democracy

Sentence Examples:

• The accuracy of the data was crucial for the study.

• The legacy of the civil rights movement continues today.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ade”

The suffix -ade is typically used to form nouns that refer to actions or results of actions. It can also refer to something that is a product or a type of substance.

Example Nouns:

• Parade

• Cavalcade

• Serenade

• Blockade

• Masquerade

Sentence Examples:

• They marched in the parade to celebrate the victory.

• The streets were lined with people watching the cavalcade of floats.

Nouns with the Suffix “-age”

This suffix is used to create nouns that typically refer to an action or process, a condition, or a collection.

Example Nouns:

• Heritage

• Baggage

• Storage

• Language

• Courage

Sentence Examples:

• We should preserve our cultural heritage for future generations.

• I left my baggage at the hotel and went sightseeing.

Nouns with the Suffix “-al”

The -al suffix often turns words into nouns that refer to actions or processes, as well as adjectives.

Example Nouns:

• Animal

• Carnival

• Festival

• Proposal

• Journal

Sentence Examples:

• The animal was protected by national wildlife laws.

• I received a proposal for a new project at work.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ant” / “-ent”

These suffixes are used to create nouns that often refer to a person or thing that performs an action or has a particular role. They can also form adjectives, but here we’ll focus on their noun usage.

Example Nouns:

• Applicant

• Servant

• Resident

• Participant

• Student

Sentence Examples:

• The applicant was qualified for the job.

• The resident complained about the noise.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ary”

This suffix is used to create nouns that refer to a person or a place related to something specific.

Example Nouns:

• Secretary

• Dictionary

• Contrary

• Commentary

• Visionary

Sentence Examples:

• The secretary took all the meeting minutes.

• I look up difficult words in the dictionary.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ery”

The -ery suffix often indicates a place of business or a collection of items, or it can refer to a type of activity.

Example Nouns:

• Bakery

• Fishery

• Jewelry

• Gallery

• Robbery

Sentence Examples:

• We bought fresh bread from the bakery.

• The gallery featured modern art pieces.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ess”

The -ess suffix is used to form nouns that often denote a female person or a feminine quality.

Example Nouns:

• Actress

• Waitress

• Goddess

• Princess

• Empress

Sentence Examples:

• The actress won the award for Best Performance.

• The waitress brought our drinks promptly

Nouns with the Suffix “-ist”

The suffix -ist is commonly used to create nouns that refer to a person who practices or is concerned with a particular activity, skill, or field of study.

Example Nouns:

• Artist

• Scientist

• Tourist

• Dentist

• Journalist

Sentence Examples:

• The artist painted a beautiful portrait of the landscape.

• She is a scientist working on a groundbreaking research project.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ity” / “-ty”

The -ity and -ty suffixes are used to form nouns that express a state or quality, often abstract. They can convert adjectives into nouns, helping us describe a specific condition or situation.

Example Nouns:

• Activity

• Reality

• Creativity

• Beauty

• Simplicity

Sentence Examples:

• His creativity shines through in every project.

• The reality of the situation was much more complicated than we thought.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ment”

The suffix -ment is commonly used to turn verbs into nouns that describe the result or action of the verb. These nouns often refer to a state, process, or product of the action.

Example Nouns:

• Payment

• Development

• Agreement

• Movement

• Achievement

Sentence Examples:

• The payment for the service was due at the end of the month.

• Their agreement will be finalized by next week.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ness”

The -ness suffix is added to adjectives to form nouns that describe a quality or state of being. These nouns are often abstract, referring to the nature of something.

Example Nouns:

• Happiness

• Kindness

• Sadness

• Darkness

• Laziness

Sentence Examples:

• Happiness is a state that many people strive for in life.

• His kindness was appreciated by everyone in the community.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ology”

The suffix -ology is used to form nouns that refer to the study or science of a particular subject. These nouns are often used in academic or professional contexts.

Example Nouns:

• Biology

• Psychology

• Geology

• Sociology

• Anthropology

Sentence Examples:

• Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions.

• She majored in psychology to better understand human behavior.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ship”

The -ship suffix is often used to indicate a state, condition, or quality, especially one related to relationships, status, or skill. It is also used to describe an occupation or group membership.

Example Nouns:

• Friendship

• Leadership

• Scholarship

• Citizenship

• Partnership

Sentence Examples:

• Their friendship has lasted for over two decades.

• He was awarded a scholarship to attend the prestigious university.

Nouns with the Suffix “-sion” / “-tion”

These list of Nouns with the Suffix are used to form nouns that refer to actions, processes, or states. They are similar to -tion but often reflect specific sounds or nuances in the word’s pronunciation.

Example Nouns:

• Decision

• Vision

• Session

• Extension

• Collection

Sentence Examples:

• The decision was made after a long discussion.

• We had a productive session with the coach.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ize” / “-ation”

The -ize and -ation suffixes are used to form nouns that refer to actions, processes, or results of actions. -ation is more common when turning verbs into nouns.

Example Nouns:

• Realization

• Organization

• Civilization

• Industrialization

Sentence Examples:

• The realization of his mistake came too late.

• The organization of the event was handled by volunteers.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ist”

The suffix -ist typically refers to a person who practices or is involved in a particular occupation or activity. It can also be used to refer to a particular belief or ideology.

Example Nouns:

• Artist

• Pianist

• Socialist

• Environmentalist

Sentence Examples:

• The pianist played a beautiful sonata at the concert.

• The environmentalist advocates for stricter environmental protections.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ance” / “-ence”

These suffixes are used to form nouns that often refer to actions, processes, or qualities. They are frequently used to create nouns that describe a state or condition.

Example Nouns:

• Performance

• Resistance

• Existence

• Importance

• Independence

Sentence Examples:

• The performance of the team has improved drastically.

• Independence is a key value in many cultures.

Nouns with the Suffix “-er” / “-or”

These suffixes are used to create nouns that typically refer to people who perform a particular action or role. The -er suffix is more common, while -or is often used for professions and formal titles.

Example Nouns:

• Teacher

• Singer

• Writer

• Doctor

• Editor

Sentence Examples:

• The teacher explained the lesson in a clear and simple way.

• The doctor recommended a thorough examination for the patient.

Nouns with the Suffix “-hood”

The -hood suffix is used to form nouns that refer to a state, condition, or quality, often associated with a particular time of life or a group of people.

Example Nouns:

• Childhood

• Brotherhood

• Motherhood

• Adulthood

• Neighborhood

Sentence Examples:

• Childhood memories are often cherished throughout life.

• Motherhood comes with its unique challenges and rewards.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ism”

The -ism suffix is used to form nouns that refer to ideologies, belief systems, or practices. These nouns are often used in discussions about politics, philosophy, and social issues.

Example Nouns:

• Realism

• Capitalism

• Socialism

• Feminism

• Racism

Sentence Examples:

• Feminism advocates for gender equality across all sectors of life.

• Capitalism promotes private ownership and free market competition.

Nouns with the Suffix “-ity”

The -ity suffix is used to form nouns from adjectives, often referring to a state or quality. It is frequently found in both academic and everyday language.

Example Nouns:

• Activity

• Beauty

• Simplicity

• Curiosity

• Generosity

Sentence Examples:

• The simplicity of the design made it very user-friendly.

• Her curiosity led her to explore various fields of science.

Conculation on list of Nouns with the Suffix 

By learning how suffixes transform base words into meaningful nouns, you can dramatically expand your vocabulary and improve both your written and spoken English. From the common -ness to the more technical -ology, these suffixes allow us to create more specific and nuanced terms, which enhances our ability to communicate effectively.

Understanding these suffixes is especially helpful for students, writers, and professionals who aim to express themselves with clarity and precision. Keep practicing these nouns with suffixes and you’ll find yourself using them naturally in your everyday communication. The more familiar you become with how suffixes function, the easier it will be to recognize and use them correctly in a variety of contexts.