Rule II.
The preposition sub prefixed to any word reduces the sense of it. As, Subpunctate, not fully punctate; Subhirsute, not fully hirsute, &c.
Rule III.
The termination culus in Latin words added to a comparative implies the state of the object comparatively. As, Convexiusculus, rather convex than not; Majusculus, rather large than not. This is usually denoted in English by the termination ish, or the adverb rather; as, largish, rather large, &c.
Rule IV.
The participle present used instead of the adjective implies a tendency to the quality expressed by it. As, Cinerascens, cinerascent, tending to cinereous, &c.
Rule V.
The preposition ob prefixed to a term reverses it. As, Obconical, Obcordate, a conical or heart-shaped body, of which the narrowest part is the base.
Rule VI.
In compound terms the last member indicates the preponderating character. For instance, when it is said of a body that it is nigro-æneous, it means that the æneous tint prevails: but if, vice versâ, it is termed æneo-nigrous, the black tint is predominant.—N.B. In Sculpture the terms punctato-striate, or punctato-sulcate, signify that striæ or furrows are drawn with puncta in them.