Explore this spelling list: suffix -ous. Our page is packed with activities, games, and resources to help you succeed. Try out the spelling games at the bottom of the page.
In the English language, a suffix is added to the end of a word to change its meaning. A suffix is the opposite of a prefix (which is added to the beginning of a word).
The suffix -ous comes from Latin and signifies having the quality of or being full of something. When attached to the end of a root word, -ous turns it into a description of a characteristic or state of being. For example, if something is dangerous it is fraught with the quality of danger and if something is glorious it is full of glory or magnificence.
You can work out whether you need to use the -ous suffix by checking if the word you are spelling is an adjective. An adjective is a word that is used to describe someone or something.
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poisonous |
Not all snake bites are poisonous.
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dangerous |
A crocodile is a very dangerous creature.
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famous |
A famous person is someone well-known to many people.
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various |
There were various bones at the museum.
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tremendous |
The thunder made a tremendous noise.
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enormous |
The enormous crocodile was waiting by the riverbank.
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jealous |
He was jealous of his brother's new bike.
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glamorous |
She always dressed up and looked glamorous.
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courageous |
The soldiers were courageous in battle.
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serious |
The judge said it was a very serious crime.
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obvious |
It was obvious that the boy needed some help.
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curious |
I was curious to see how many people turned up.
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hideous |
The weather was hideous during the storm.
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spontaneous |
There was spontaneous applause when he spoke.
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Spelling games using the word list: The suffix -ous
Bouncing Baubles
Christmas spelling!
Spelling Snowball
Winter spelling fun!
Egg Hunt
Crack the eggs!
Word Search, small
The classic English word game.
Against the Clock
Spelling 'against the clock'.
Mayan Temple
Try the temple spelling puzzle.
Monkey Business
It's bananas!
Test yourself using the 'Listen and Spell' spelling test.
Print spelling worksheets and activities: The suffix -ous
Handwriting worksheets: The suffix -ous
This word list was created by Spellzone. View more Spellzone course lists or curriculum word lists.
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