# dative

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈdeɪtɪv/ · frequency rank #57,323

## Definitions
1. Denoting the case of a noun which expresses the remoter or indirect object, generally indicated in English by to or for with the objective.
2. In one’s gift; capable of being disposed of at will and pleasure, as an office or other privilege.
3. Removable, as distinguished from perpetual; — said of an officer.
4. Given by a judge, as distinguished from being cast upon a party by the law itself.
5. Formed by two electrons contributed by one atom; see dative bond.
6. Given in advance; not needed to be calculated.

## Etymology
From Latin datīvus (“appropriate for giving”), itself from datus (the past participle of dō (“to give”)) + -īvus (“-ive”).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/dative