deictic

adjective deic·tic \ˈdīk-tik also ˈdāk-\

Definition of DEICTIC

: showing or pointing out directly <the words this, that, and those have a deictic function>

Greek deiktikos able to show, from deiktos, verbal of deiknynai to show — more at diction

First Known Use: 1876

Next Word in the Dictionary: deidPrevious Word in the Dictionary: deicideAll Words Near: deictic

What made you want to look up deictic? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears