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What does the suffix -en mean?

The suffix "-en" can have a few different meanings depending on the context:

1. To make or become: This is the most common meaning of "-en" and it is often used to create verbs from adjectives or nouns.

* Examples:

* Strengthen: to make stronger

* Widen: to make wider

* Darken: to make darker

* Harden: to make hard

* Soften: to make soft

2. Made of or consisting of: "-en" can also be used to indicate material or composition.

* Examples:

* Wooden: made of wood

* Golden: made of gold

* Leatheren: made of leather

3. Belonging to: This meaning is less common and is primarily used in archaic or poetic language.

* Examples:

* Heaven: belonging to heaven

* Earthly: belonging to the earth

4. Past Participle: In some cases, "-en" is used to form the past participle of verbs, especially in older English.

* Examples:

* Broken: past participle of "break"

* Stolen: past participle of "steal"

5. Adverbial suffix: In rare cases, "-en" can be used to form adverbs.

* Examples:

* Sudden: suddenly

* Often: frequently

It's important to consider the context of the word to determine the specific meaning of "-en."

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