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Words with the -ic and -ology suffixes

This list pairs words ending in -ic, a suffix meaning relating to or having the qualities of, with words ending in -ology, meaning the study of. Together they show two of the most common suffixes in English, from scientific and dramatic to biology and psychology. It suits students studying word parts, test prep, and anyone curious what these endings actually mean.

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Words with the -ic and -ology suffixes

35 words
WordMeaningIn a sentenceSave
economicadjectiveRelating to the production, distribution, and use of money, goods, and resources in a society.The government introduced new economic policies aimed at reducing unemployment nationwide.
historicadjectiveFamous or important in history, or likely to be remembered as significant.The two leaders signed a historic peace agreement after years of conflict.
scientificadjectiveBased on or using the systematic methods and principles of science.The team followed a strict scientific method to test their hypothesis.
dramaticadjectiveStriking, sudden, or intense in a way that draws strong attention or emotion.The team made a dramatic comeback, scoring three goals in the final ten minutes.
energeticadjectiveFull of energy, enthusiasm, and the capacity for vigorous activity.The energetic puppy ran circles around the yard for nearly an hour.
magneticadjectiveHaving the properties of a magnet, able to attract certain metals, or relating to magnetism.A magnetic strip on the card lets you swipe it to open the door.
poeticadjectiveRelating to or having the qualities of poetry, such as rhythm, imagery, or emotional intensity.Her poetic description of the storm made the scene feel almost alive.
artisticadjectiveHaving or showing a natural skill for creating or appreciating art.Her artistic talent was obvious from the vivid murals she painted in the courtyard.
athleticadjectivePhysically strong, fit, and active, or relating to athletes and sports.She has always been athletic, excelling at soccer, swimming, and track.
classicadjectiveWidely recognized as being of the highest quality and lasting value, often serving as a standard example.The film is considered a classic example of suspenseful storytelling.
comicadjectiveCausing laughter or amusement; intended to be funny.The comic timing of the actors made even the simplest lines feel hilarious.
basicadjectiveForming an essential foundation; simple, fundamental, and without elaboration or extras.The course covers the basic principles of chemistry before moving to advanced topics.
toxicadjectivePoisonous, or harmful to health, relationships, or well-being in a damaging, often insidious way.The factory was fined for dumping toxic waste into the nearby river.
plasticnounA synthetic material that can be molded into various shapes and is widely used in manufacturing.The toy was made of brightly colored plastic that felt light in her hands.
heroicadjectiveShowing great courage, especially in a difficult or dangerous situation.Firefighters made a heroic effort to save the family trapped inside.
tragicadjectiveCausing or characterized by extreme sadness, suffering, or a disastrous outcome.The tragic accident on the highway left the whole town in mourning.
staticadjectiveNot moving, changing, or developing; staying the same over time.Sales figures remained static for the third quarter in a row.
romanticadjectiveRelating to love, especially idealized or passionate feelings between people.They spent a romantic evening walking along the beach at sunset.
academicadjectiveRelating to schools, colleges, or universities, and to studying, teaching, or research generally.Her academic record included top grades in mathematics and several published research papers.
specificadjectiveClearly and precisely defined or identified, rather than general or vague.Please give me a specific date instead of just saying 'sometime soon'.
biologynounThe scientific study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, and evolution.In biology class, we dissected a frog to study its internal organs.
geologynounThe scientific study of the Earth's physical structure, substance, history, and the processes that shape it.Her fascination with geology began after she found fossils embedded in a roadside cliff.
psychologynounThe scientific study of the human mind and how it influences behavior, thought, and emotion.She studied psychology in college and later became a licensed therapist.
technologynounThe application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry and everyday devices.New technology has transformed how doctors diagnose and treat rare diseases.
zoologynounThe scientific study of animals, including their structure, behavior, classification, and distribution.She switched her major to zoology after volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center.
archaeologynounThe scientific study of past human life and activities through the excavation and analysis of physical remains.She studied archaeology in college and later worked on digs across the Mediterranean.
sociologynounThe academic study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society.Her introductory sociology course examined how social class affects access to education.
anthropologynounThe scientific study of human beings, their societies, cultures, and development over time.She is studying anthropology to understand how ancient tribes organized their communities.
mythologynounA collection of traditional stories, especially about gods and heroes, belonging to a particular culture.Greek mythology explains natural events through the actions of gods like Zeus and Poseidon.
ecologynounThe scientific study of how living things interact with each other and their environment.The university's ecology course examined how wolves affect deer populations in the region.
theologynounThe systematic study of religious belief, the nature of God, and questions of faith.She spent four years studying theology before becoming an ordained minister.
astrologynounThe belief and practice of studying the positions of stars and planets to predict human affairs and events.She reads her horoscope every morning because she takes astrology seriously.
radiologynounThe branch of medicine that uses imaging technology, such as X-rays, to diagnose and treat disease.She works in radiology, reading scans to help doctors detect broken bones and tumors.
cardiologynounThe branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of heart disorders.After the chest pains continued, her doctor referred her to cardiology for further tests.
terminologynounThe set of specialized terms and words used in a particular subject, profession, or field of study.Medical terminology can be confusing for patients unfamiliar with the field.

What does the suffix -ic mean?

The suffix -ic turns a noun into an adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or having the qualities of something. Scientific means relating to science, and heroic means having the qualities of a hero. This suffix is extremely common in English, especially in words borrowed from Greek and Latin, and recognizing it can help you quickly identify that a word is describing rather than naming something.

What does the suffix -ology mean?

The suffix -ology comes from the Greek word logos, meaning word or study, and it names a field of study or body of knowledge. Biology is the study of life, and psychology is the study of the mind. Whenever you see -ology at the end of an unfamiliar word, you can usually guess that the word names an academic subject or area of expertise.

Frequently asked questions

What does the suffix -ic mean?

It means relating to or having the qualities of something, turning a noun into an adjective.

What does -ology mean at the end of a word?

It means the study of a subject, as in biology, the study of life, or psychology, the study of the mind.