Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a bottom of a specified character: Describes something that has a bottom, often with the type or quality of the bottom being indicated by a preceding word (e.g., flat-bottomed, round-bottomed).

Usage

• The adjective "bottomed" is almost always used in combination with another word (typically an adjective or noun) that describes the nature of the bottom. It forms a compound adjective that modifies a noun.
• It is used attributively (before a noun) or, less commonly, predicatively (after a linking verb like 'is' or 'was').

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):

  • She bought a set of flat-bottomed woks for stir-frying.
  • The copper-bottomed saucepan heats evenly.
  • They sailed across the lake in a flat-bottomed boat.

• Predicative use (after a linking verb):

  • The glass is round-bottomed and cannot stand upright on the table.
  • All the beakers in the lab are conical-bottomed.

Advanced Usage

• "[adjective/noun] + bottomed" as a standard compound: This is the primary and most frequent use. The first part of the compound specifies the characteristic.
  • The contract was copper-bottomed, guaranteeing our investment. (Figurative use meaning 'financially secure' or 'reliable').
  • He prefers wide-bottomed trousers for comfort.

Variants and Related Words

• Bottom (noun): The lowest part or point of something.
• Bottom (verb): To provide with a bottom; to reach the lowest point.
• Bottomless (adjective): Having no bottom; extremely deep.

Synonyms

• Based: Having a base of a specified kind (similar in structure, e.g., "broad-based").
• Footed: Having a foot or feet of a specified kind (e.g., "flat-footed").

Related Phrases

• "[adjective]-bottomed": This is the standard phrasal structure. It is not a phrasal verb but a common compound adjective pattern.
  • The valley was soft-bottomed with silt.
  • These are safety-bottomed cups for toddlers.

Related Idioms

• Copper-bottomed: (Idiomatic) Used to describe a plan, agreement, or investment that is very safe and certain to succeed.
  • They have a copper-bottomed guarantee from the manufacturer.

Adjective

1. having a bottom of a specified character