Nouns ending in -el often denote small versions of the root word or a specific tool or instrument. Examples include tunnel (from tun) and chisel (from cise, an obsolete word for cut). The suffix can also appear in words like morsel, derived from the Old French “morcel,” meaning “bite.” This pattern, while not universal, provides a common thread through many such words in the English lexicon.
Understanding this morphological element contributes to a richer comprehension of vocabulary and etymology. Recognizing the -el ending can help deduce the meaning of unfamiliar words and appreciate the historical evolution of the language. This suffix’s origins can be traced back to Old French and ultimately Latin, highlighting its enduring presence in the English language.
