Ex

Definition

The term "ex" denotes (1) a former partner or spouse; (2) a former holder of a position or title (prefix “ex-” meaning “former”); and (3) an abbreviation for “example” (ex.).

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Prefix
• Abbreviation

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ɛks/
• Respelling: EKS

British English

• IPA: /ɛks/
• Respelling: EKS

Etymology

As a noun, from Latin ex “former” (in compounds) and later by back-formation from ex-wife, ex-husband, etc.; as an abbreviation, from Latin exempli gratia “for the sake of example.”

Derivatives

• Ex-partner (noun)
• Ex-president (noun)
• Ex-colonial (adjective)

Synonyms

• Former partner (for noun sense)
• Former (for prefix sense)
• E.g. (for abbreviation sense)

Antonyms

• Current partner
• Incumbent
• Definition (for abbreviation sense)

Usage

"Ex" appears in personal, historical, and written contexts. Examples: "I ran into my ex at the party," "He is an ex-CEO of the company," and "Several options (e.g., finance, health) are listed ex. above."

Related Terms

• Former: Having previously held a role or status.
• Example: A representative instance or case.
• Prefix: A morpheme added to the beginning of a word.
• Abbreviation: A shortened form of a word or phrase.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A former romantic partner: A person with whom one was previously in a relationship.
  • Example: "She ran into her ex at the reunion."

Prefix

• Denoting former status: Placed before a title or role to indicate it is no longer held.
  • Example: "An ex-ambassador wrote the foreword."

Abbreviation

• Short for “for example” (exempli gratia): Used to introduce illustrations or examples.
  • Example: "You need a valid ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license) ex. for travel."