600+ Adjectives Starting with A

When it comes to expanding your vocabulary, adjectives starting with the letter A offer a surprising mix of everyday descriptors, uplifting positives, and unique gems you may have never heard before. Are you looking for adjectives to describe a person? Or looking for positive adjectives to describe your book characters? 

Below, you’ll discover over 500 adjectives that start with A, organized into helpful categories like positive traits, emotions, appearance, and more. 

Positive Adjectives Starting with A

Positive adjectives are a great way to describe people, actions, and ideas in an uplifting and inspiring way. They help highlight strengths, admirable qualities, and encouraging traits. Here are some of the most powerful positive adjectives starting with A to add to your vocabulary. 

Admirable – worthy of respect or approval

Affectionate – showing love and warmth

Agreeable – pleasant, likable, or easy to get along with

Amazing – causing great surprise or wonder

Ambitious – having strong determination to succeed

Amicable – friendly and peaceable

Artistic – creative or skilled in the arts

Authentic – genuine and true to oneself

Adventurous – willing to take risks or try new experiences

Appreciative – showing gratitude and recognition

Able – having the skill or ability to do something well

Adaptable – able to adjust easily to change

Altruistic – selfless and concerned for the welfare of others

Astute – perceptive, sharp, or clever

Attractive – pleasing or appealing to the senses

Negative Adjectives Starting with A

Not every description is flattering. Negative adjectives are just as important because they allow you to describe flaws, weaknesses, or unfavorable traits in people, situations, and things. They bring balance and realism to storytelling, character development, and everyday communication.

Abrasive – harsh, rough, or overly aggressive

Absentminded – forgetful or inattentive

Addictive – causing dependence or compulsion

Adulterous – unfaithful in a romantic relationship

Aggressive – hostile, forceful, or pushy

Aimless – lacking direction or purpose

Airheaded – silly or lacking intelligence

Aloof – distant, unfriendly, or detached

Amateurish – unskilled or clumsy in execution

Ambivalent – having conflicting feelings; indecisive

Anxious – uneasy, worried, or nervous

Arrogant – having an exaggerated sense of self-importance

Awkward – socially clumsy or physically ungraceful

Appalling – shocking, dreadful, or horrific

Argumentative – prone to conflict or disputes

Neutral / Everyday Descriptive Adjectives Starting with A

Not all adjectives carry a strong positive or negative tone. Many fall in between, serving as simple descriptors for appearance, quantity, or everyday qualities. These neutral adjectives starting with A are versatile and practical in writing and conversation.

Actual – real or existing in fact

Additional – added, extra, or supplementary

Administrative – relating to management or organization

Adolescent – relating to teenagers or youth

Adult – fully grown or mature

Aerial – relating to the air or atmosphere

Agricultural – relating to farming or cultivation

Alternate – every other; happening by turns

Ancient – very old or from long ago

Annual – occurring once a year

Another – one more or an additional

Antique – old and often valuable

Arctic – extremely cold; relating to the North Pole

Average – typical, ordinary, or standard

Available – ready for use; accessible

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Master List: 550+ Adjectives Starting with A

Abandoned – left behind, deserted, or neglected.

Abashed – embarrassed or uneasy.

Abhorrent – causing disgust or loathing.

Abiding – lasting, enduring over time.

Able – having skill or power to do something.

Abnormal – not typical or usual; irregular.

Abolished – formally ended or put a stop to.

Abominable – detestable, loathsome, or very unpleasant.

Aboriginal – relating to the original inhabitants of a region.

Abortive – failing to succeed; unsuccessful.

Abounding – plentiful, existing in great numbers.

Abrasive – harsh, rough, or irritating in manner.

Absent – not present or lacking.

Absentminded – forgetful or distracted.

Absolute – total, complete, or unconditional.

Absorbed – deeply engaged or engrossed.

Absorbing – extremely interesting or engrossing.

Abstract – theoretical, not concrete; conceptual.

Absurd – wildly unreasonable or illogical.

Abundant – existing in large amounts; plentiful.

Academic – related to education, learning, or scholarly pursuits.

Accelerated – sped up or increased in pace.

Acceptable – satisfactory or adequate.

Accessible – easy to reach, use, or understand.

Accidental – happening by chance; unintended.

Acclaimed – praised enthusiastically or publicly.

Accommodating – willing to help or adapt to others.

Accomplished – highly skilled or successful.

Accurate – correct, exact, or precise.

Accusing – suggesting blame or wrongdoing.

Acerbic – sharp, bitter, or harsh in tone.

Achievable – capable of being accomplished.

Achy – sore or experiencing dull pain.

Acidic – sharp-tasting or sour; also harsh in tone.

Acidulous – somewhat sour or tart.

Acknowledgeable – able to be recognized or admitted.

Acoustic – relating to sound or hearing.

Acquainted – familiar with someone or something.

Active – lively, energetic, or engaged in action.

Actual – real, existing in fact.

Acute – sharp, intense, or severe.

Ad hoc – created for a specific purpose.

Adamant – unyielding, firm, or stubborn.

Adaptable – able to adjust easily to change.

Addicted – unable to stop using something habitually.

Addictive – causing dependency or strong habitual use.

Additional – extra, added, or supplementary.

Adept – highly skilled or proficient.

Adequate – sufficient or satisfactory in quality or quantity.

Adhesive – sticky; able to adhere or cling.

Adjacent – next to or adjoining.

Admirable – worthy of respect or approval.

Admiring – expressing or showing admiration.

Admissible – acceptable or valid, especially in a court of law.

Adorable – extremely cute, lovable, or charming.

Adored – deeply loved or cherished.

Adoring – showing great affection or admiration.

Adroit – skillful and clever, especially with the hands or mind.

Adult – fully grown or mature.

Advanced – highly developed or ahead in progress.

Advantageous – beneficial or giving an advantage.

Adventurous – willing to take risks or explore new experiences.

Adversarial – involving conflict, opposition, or rivalry.

Adverse – harmful, unfavorable, or negative.

Advisable – recommended or sensible.

Affable – friendly, easygoing, and approachable.

Affective – relating to emotions or feelings.

Affectionate – showing warmth, love, or fondness.

Affiliated – officially connected or associated.

Affirmative – agreeing, confirming, or positive.

Afflicted – affected by pain, suffering, or hardship.

Affluent – wealthy, prosperous, and well-off.

Affordable – reasonably priced; within one’s means.

Afraid – fearful, anxious, or scared.

African – relating to Africa, its people, or culture.

Ageless – never appearing to grow old; timeless.

Aggravated – made worse or more severe; annoyed.

Aggressive – forceful, hostile, or overly assertive.

Aggrieved – feeling wronged or treated unfairly.

Agile – quick, nimble, and flexible.

Agitated – troubled, nervous, or emotionally upset.

Agonizing – causing great physical or emotional pain.

Agreeable – pleasant, friendly, and easy to like.

Aimless – lacking purpose or direction.

Airborne – carried through the air.

Airheaded – silly, scatterbrained, or lacking seriousness.

Airtight – sealed completely; allowing no leaks.

Alarming – causing fear, concern, or anxiety.

Alert – watchful, attentive, and quick to react.

Alien – foreign, strange, or unfamiliar.

Alike – similar in appearance or nature.

Alive – living, full of energy and life.

All-around – versatile and skilled in many areas.

Alleged – claimed but not proven true.

Allegorical – symbolic, conveying deeper meaning through representation.

Allergic – sensitive to certain substances; having an aversion.

Allied – joined in partnership or association.

Alluring – powerfully attractive or fascinating.

Almighty – all-powerful; having unlimited power.

Alone – without company; solitary.

Aloof – emotionally distant, detached, or unfriendly.

Altruistic – selflessly concerned with the welfare of others.

Amateurish – unskilled, clumsy, or lacking professionalism.

Amazing – causing great surprise, wonder, or admiration.

Ambiguous – unclear or open to multiple interpretations.

Ambitious – having strong determination to succeed.

Ambling – walking slowly, leisurely, or without hurry.

Ambivalent – having mixed or contradictory feelings.

Amicable – friendly and without conflict.

Amorous – showing or expressing love or desire.

Ample – abundant, sufficient, or more than enough.

Amusing – entertaining, funny, or enjoyable.

Analytical – logical, methodical, and detail-oriented.

Anarchic – lacking order, chaotic.

Anatomical – relating to the structure of organisms or bodies.

Ancient – very old or from long ago.

Anecdotal – based on personal stories or accounts.

Angelic – resembling an angel; pure and kind.

Angered – feeling or showing anger.

Angry – feeling strong displeasure or hostility.

Anguished – experiencing severe pain or distress.

Animated – full of life, lively, or spirited.

Annoyed – feeling irritated or bothered.

Annoying – causing irritation or nuisance.

Annual – happening once a year.

Anonymous – without a name; unknown identity.

Antagonistic – showing opposition or hostility.

Antarctic – relating to the South Pole or Antarctica.

Anticipated – expected or looked forward to.

Antique – old and often valuable.

Antisocial – avoiding social interaction; unfriendly.

Anxious – uneasy, worried, or fearful.

Apathetic – showing little or no emotion or interest.

Apex – at the top or highest point.

Aphonic – voiceless or unable to speak.

Apocalyptic – relating to the end of the world; catastrophic.

Apocryphal – of doubtful authenticity.

Apologetic – expressing regret or excuse.

Appalled – shocked and horrified.

Appalling – extremely bad, causing dismay.

Apparent – clear, obvious, or visible.

Appealing – attractive or interesting.

Appetizing – stimulating the appetite; delicious-looking.

Applicable – relevant or appropriate.

Appointed – officially assigned or designated.

Appreciative – showing gratitude or recognition.

Apprehensive – anxious or fearful about the future.

Appropriate – suitable or fitting for a situation.

Approximate – nearly correct or exact.

Arable – suitable for farming or cultivation.

Arbitrary – based on random choice or personal whim.

Arched – curved or bent like an arch.

Ardent – passionate and enthusiastic.

Arduous – requiring great effort; difficult.

Arid – extremely dry or lacking in interest.

Aristocratic – noble, elegant, or upper-class.

Armed – equipped with weapons.

Aromatic – having a pleasant and distinctive smell.

Arrogant – overly proud and self-important.

Artful – skillful or clever, often in a sly way.

Articulate – able to express oneself clearly and effectively.

Artificial – made by humans rather than natural.

Artistic – creative or skilled in the arts.

Ashamed – feeling guilt, embarrassment, or remorse.

Aspiring – having ambition or a strong desire to succeed.

Assertive – confident and self-assured.

Assigned – given a particular role or task.

Assimilated – absorbed into a culture or group.

Assistant – helpful or aiding another.

Associated – linked or connected with something.

Assorted – of various kinds or types.

Assuming – arrogant or presumptuous.

Assured – confident or guaranteed.

Asthmatic – relating to asthma; breathing difficulties.

Astonished – very surprised or amazed.

Astonishing – causing great surprise or wonder.

Astounded – shocked or amazed.

Astounding – extremely impressive or surprising.

Astral – relating to stars or outer space.

Astrological – related to astrology or horoscopes.

Astronomical – extremely large; relating to astronomy.

Astute – sharp, intelligent, and perceptive.

Athletic – strong, fit, and active.

Atmospheric – creating a particular mood or ambiance.

Atomic – relating to atoms or nuclear energy.

Atrocious – extremely bad or wicked.

Attached – emotionally connected or fastened to something.

Attainable – capable of being achieved.

Attentive – paying close attention; considerate.

Attractive – pleasing or appealing to the senses.

Atypical – not typical; unusual.

Audacious – bold, daring, or fearless.

Audible – able to be heard.

Aural – relating to the sense of hearing.

Authentic – genuine, real, or true.

Authoritative – commanding respect; reliable.

Automatic – working by itself without human control.

Autonomous – self-governing or independent.

Available – ready for use or accessible.

Avant-garde – innovative, ahead of its time.

Average – typical, ordinary, or standard.

Avid – eager or enthusiastic.

Avuncular – kind and friendly, like an uncle.

Awake – not asleep; alert.

Aware – having knowledge or perception.

Awesome – extremely impressive or inspiring.

Awful – very bad or unpleasant.

Awkward – clumsy, uncomfortable, or embarrassing.

Axiomatic – self-evident, universally accepted as true.

Axillary – relating to the armpit.

Axiological – relating to the study of values.

Axiomatic-like – resembling a universal truth.

Azure – bright blue, like a clear sky.

Aztec – relating to the Aztec civilization.

Azimuthal – relating to an azimuth (angle in navigation/astronomy).

Azotic – relating to nitrogen; nitrogenous.

Azulejo-like – resembling decorated Spanish/Portuguese tile.

Rare/Advanced A Adjectives

Abactinal – relating to the surface opposite the mouth in starfish.

Abaxial – situated away from the axis of an organ (botany).

Abbreviated – shortened in form or duration.

Abdicable – capable of being renounced or given up.

Abdominous – having a large belly.

Aberrant – deviating from the norm; abnormal.

Abeyant – temporarily inactive or suspended.

Abhorring – showing hatred or disgust.

Abiotic – non-living, not derived from life.

Abject – extremely bad, degraded, or hopeless.

Ablative – relating to removal or separation.

Able-bodied – physically strong and healthy.

Abloom – covered with blossoms; flowering.

Abnormalist – relating to abnormal conditions.

Aboriginalist – related to indigenous peoples.

Abortional – relating to abortion.

Abrupt – sudden, unexpected, or curt in manner.

Absconding – running away secretly.

Absentish – tending to be absent.

Absorbable – capable of being absorbed.

Absorptive – having the ability to soak up.

Abstinent – refraining from indulgence, especially alcohol.

Abstracted – lost in thought; absentminded.

Abstruse – difficult to understand.

Abulic – showing inability to make decisions.

Academic-like – resembling scholarly style.

Accentuated – made more noticeable or prominent.

Acceptant – willing to accept or receive.

Accidentalist – based on chance or accident.

Acclimatized – adapted to a new environment.

Accommodative – helpful, adaptable, or obliging.

Accompanied – existing with something else.

Accomplishable – capable of being completed.

Accostable – approachable, easy to speak with.

Accountable – responsible or answerable.

Accrued – accumulated or built up over time.

Acculturated – adapted to another culture.

Accusingly-toned – expressing blame.

Acephalous – lacking a head (biology).

Acervate – clustered in heaps (botany).

Achaean – relating to ancient Greece.

Achromatic – without color; neutral.

Acid-fast – resistant to acid staining (microbiology).

Acid-loving – thriving in acidic environments.

Aciniform – shaped like a cluster of grapes.

Acknowledged – recognized as valid or true.

Acoustic-like – resembling sound properties.

Acquiescent – willing to accept without protest.

Acquisitive – eager to acquire wealth or possessions.

Acrid – sharp, bitter, or harsh in taste or tone.

Acrimonious – bitter and angry, especially in speech.

Actionable – giving sufficient cause for legal action.

Activated – set in motion or made active.

Active-minded – quick-thinking and alert.

Actualized – made real or concrete.

Acuate – sharpened to a point.

Acute-angled – having sharp or narrow corners.

Adamant – unyielding, firm, or stubborn.

Adapted – adjusted to fit new conditions.

Adaptive – able to change to suit circumstances.

Addicting – causing habitual use or dependence.

Addled – confused or muddled.

Adept – highly skilled and proficient.

Adequate – sufficient, enough to meet requirements.

Adhesive – sticky, tending to cling.

Adjacent – lying next to; adjoining.

Adjectival – relating to or functioning as an adjective.

Adjoined – joined or attached.

Administrative – relating to management or organization.

Admirable – worthy of admiration or respect.

Admissible – acceptable, allowable (often legal).

Admonitory – serving as a warning or caution.

Adolescent – relating to or typical of teenagers.

Adopted – legally taken as one’s own.

Adoptive – relating to adoption.

Adorable – extremely cute, lovable, or charming.

Adorned – decorated or embellished.

Adrenal – relating to adrenal glands.

Adroit – skillful, clever, resourceful.

Adscript – bound to a place or service (historical).

Adult – mature, fully developed.

Advanced – ahead in progress or development.

Advantageous – providing a benefit or gain.

Adventitious – happening by chance, not design.

Adventurous – willing to take risks.

Adverse – harmful, unfavorable.

Advisory – giving advice or recommendations.

Aesthetic – relating to beauty or artistic taste.

Affable – friendly, approachable.

Affected – artificial or pretentious in manner.

Affective – relating to emotions.

Affectionate – showing love or fondness.

Affiliate – officially connected, attached.

Affined – bound by marriage; connected.

Affirmative – confirming, agreeing.

Afflicted – suffering from pain or hardship.

Affluent – wealthy, well-off.

Affronted – offended or insulted.

Afghan – relating to Afghanistan.

Afire – burning, ablaze.

Aflame – on fire, glowing.

Afloat – floating on water.

Afoot – in progress, happening.

Afraid – fearful, anxious.

Aftermost – furthest back.

Afterwardly – subsequent, later.

Agape – wide open (mouth/eyes) in wonder or shock.

Aggravated – made worse; annoyed.

Ageless – not showing the effects of age; timeless.

Aggravating – causing irritation or making worse.

Aggressive – forceful, hostile, or assertive.

Aggrieved – feeling resentment at unfair treatment.

Agile – quick, nimble, and flexible.

Agitated – emotionally upset or restless.

Agonizing – causing great physical or emotional pain.

Agreeable – pleasant, likable, and cooperative.

Aimless – without purpose or direction.

Airborne – carried through the air.

Airless – lacking fresh air; stuffy.

Airy – light, delicate, or spacious.

Ajar – slightly open.

Alarmed – filled with fear or concern.

Alarming – causing worry or dread.

Alert – watchful, attentive.

Alien – foreign, unfamiliar, or strange.

Alike – similar in appearance or nature.

Alive – full of life; not dead.

All-around – versatile, skilled in many areas.

Alleged – claimed but not proven.

Allegorical – symbolic; representing deeper meaning.

Allergic – having an allergy or strong dislike.

Allied – joined in association or purpose.

Alluring – attractive, tempting, or fascinating.

Almighty – all-powerful; having unlimited power.

Alone – solitary, without company.

Aloof – distant or unfriendly.

Alpha – dominant, first in rank.

Alpine – relating to high mountains.

Alterable – able to be changed.

Alternate – occurring by turns.

Alternative – offering another possibility.

Amateur – not professional; inexperienced.

Amatory – relating to love or sexual desire.

Ambiguous – open to more than one interpretation.

Ambitious – determined to achieve success.

Ambivalent – having mixed feelings.

Ambling – moving at a slow, relaxed pace.

Amicable – friendly and peaceable.

Amorous – showing romantic love.

Ample – sufficient or more than enough.

Amusing – entertaining, funny.

Analytical – logical and systematic.

Anarchic – lacking order or control.

Anatomical – relating to body structure.

Ancient – very old; from long ago.

Anecdotal – based on personal stories.

Angelic – pure, innocent, or like an angel.

Angry – showing strong displeasure.

Anguished – suffering great pain or distress.

Animated – full of life and energy.

Annoyed – feeling irritated.

Annoying – causing irritation or trouble.

Annual – happening once a year.

Anonymous – without a name or identity.

Antagonistic – hostile or opposed.

Antarctic – relating to the South Pole.

Anticipated – expected or awaited.

Anticlimactic – disappointing in contrast to expectation.

Antique – old and often valuable.

Antisocial – unfriendly, avoiding interaction.

Anxious – nervous or worried.

Apathetic – showing little interest or concern.

Apex – highest point or peak.

Aphonic – voiceless, unable to speak.

Apocalyptic – resembling end-of-world destruction.

Apocryphal – of doubtful authenticity.

Apologetic – showing regret or excuse.

Appalled – shocked, horrified.

Appalling – extremely bad, dreadful.

Apparent – obvious, visible.

Appealing – attractive or interesting.

Appetizing – stimulating appetite; delicious-looking.

Applicable – relevant, suitable.

Appointed – officially assigned.

Appreciative – showing gratitude.

Apprehensive – fearful of the future.

Appropriate – suitable or proper.

Approximate – nearly correct or exact.

Arable – suitable for farming.

Arbitrary – random, based on whim.

Arched – curved like an arch.

Ardent – passionate, enthusiastic.

Abaft – toward the rear of a ship.

Abactinal – relating to the surface opposite the mouth in starfish.

Abaxial – situated away from the axis (especially in botany, like a leaf’s underside).

Abdominous – having a large or protruding belly.

Abluent – cleansing or purifying.

Ablutionary – relating to washing or ritual cleansing.

Abnormous – irregular, monstrous, or unusual.

Abrachial – lacking arms.

Abscised – having fallen off naturally (as in leaves).

Abstemious – moderate or self-restrained, especially in eating or drinking.

Abstruse – difficult to understand; obscure.

Abulic – showing a lack of willpower or inability to make decisions.

Acaudal – lacking a tail.

Acaulescent – having no visible stem above ground.

Accrescent – increasing in size with age (botany).

Acicular – needle-shaped.

Acinose – full of small sacs or berries.

Acinous – shaped like a cluster of grapes.

Aclinic – without inclination; horizontal.

Acotyledonous – lacking seed leaves (botany).

Acrid – sharp, harsh, or bitter (often smell or taste).

Acrimonious – angry, bitter, especially in tone or speech.

Acrogenous – growing at the tip (like mosses or ferns).

Acrolectal – relating to the most prestigious dialect of a language.

Acrolithic – having stone extremities (used in sculpture).

Acromegalic – relating to enlargement of body parts due to hormonal disorder.

Acropetal – developing or moving toward the tip (botany).

Actinic – relating to light rays producing chemical effects (like sunburn).

Actiniform – shaped like rays.

Actinomorphic – radially symmetrical (like a star).

Adaxial – situated toward the axis, especially of a plant organ.

Addititious – relating to addition or augmentation.

Adipous – fatty or greasy.

Adnascent – growing onto or attached to something.

Adscititious – supplemental or added, not essential.

Adust – scorched, burned, or sallow in complexion.

Aegrotat – relating to illness (used in academia for illness certificates).

Aeneous – having a bronze or brass-like color.

Aeonian – eternal, everlasting.

Aeriform – having the form of air or gas.

Aestival – relating to summer.

Aetiological – relating to causes or origins (medicine/biology).

Affinal – related by marriage.

Affricative – relating to a speech sound combining a stop and a fricative.

Agamous – reproducing without sex (biology).

Agamous-like – describing asexual reproduction traits.

Agamic – reproducing without fertilization.

Agathokakological – composed of both good and evil.

Agelast – habitually never laughing.

Agonal – relating to the process of dying.

Agnathous – lacking a jaw.

Agogic – relating to variations in rhythm for expression (music).

Agrestic – rustic, rural, unrefined.

Agrestical – pertaining to fields or the countryside.

Ahistorical – not concerned with or lacking historical perspective.

Aigrette-like – resembling a tuft or plume (ornament or feathers).

Aiguillette-like – resembling braided cords worn on uniforms.

Alary – relating to wings.

Albescent – becoming white or whitish.

Albuminous – containing or resembling albumin (protein).

Alburnous – relating to sapwood of trees.

Alcalescent – tending to become alkaline.

Aleatory – dependent on chance; random.

Alembicated – refined, over-elaborate.

Algid – cold, chilly; relating to fever with chills.

Algolagnic – deriving sexual pleasure from pain.

Alienist – relating to mental illness or psychiatry (archaic).

Aliform – wing-shaped.

Aliped – having wings instead of feet (mythology).

Alkahestic – relating to a universal solvent (alchemy).

Allantoic – relating to a fetal membrane in embryos.

Alliterative – characterized by alliteration.

Allochthonous – originating elsewhere; not native.

Allodial – relating to freehold property ownership.

Allogamous – reproducing by cross-fertilization.

Allometric – relating to the growth of body parts at different rates.

Allopatric – relating to populations separated geographically.

Allotropic – existing in multiple forms (chemistry).

Alluvial – relating to soil deposits left by rivers.

Almandine-like – resembling a deep-red garnet.

Aloetic – relating to aloe plants.

Altruistic – selflessly concerned with others’ welfare.

Alveolar – relating to the alveoli in lungs or alveolar ridges in teeth.

Amaranthine – undying, immortal; also deep reddish-purple in color.

Amative – relating to love or sexual desire.

Amatorial – concerning love or romance.

Amatory – passionate or romantic.

Ambagious – roundabout, indirect, wordy.

Ambisinister – clumsy with both hands.

Ambrosial – exceptionally pleasing to taste or smell; divine.

Amphibian – able to live both on land and in water.

Amphibolic – ambiguous or uncertain; also metabolic pathways serving two functions.

Amphibrachic – relating to a poetic foot of unstressed-stressed-unstressed.

Amphictyonic – relating to ancient Greek religious leagues.

Amphiprotic – able to act as both acid and base.

Amphiprotic-like – resembling substances with dual acidity/basicity.

Amphoteric – chemically able to act as acid or base.

Amphoral – shaped like an amphora (two-handled vase).

Amplectant – clasping or embracing (zoology).

Amputative – relating to amputation.

Amusive – amusing or entertaining.

Anaclinal – sloping downward in the direction of dip.

Anadromous – fish that migrate from the sea to spawn in freshwater.

Anaerobic – able to live without oxygen.

Anaglyptic – in relief; carved or embossed.

Anagogical – mystical, spiritual, beyond literal meaning.

Analgesic – relieving pain.

Analogical – based on or involving analogy.

Anallagmatic – involving reciprocal change (mathematics).

Anamnestic – relating to memory.

Anankastic – relating to compulsion or obsession.

Anarchic – lacking order or control.

Anarthrous – lacking an article (linguistics).

Anathematized – formally cursed or condemned.

Anatolian – relating to Anatolia (Asia Minor).

Anatomical – relating to anatomy or bodily structure.

Anaxial – not arranged along an axis.

Ancillary – providing necessary support; secondary.

Androgynous – having both male and female characteristics.

Androgyne-like – resembling androgyny.

Androgynic – relating to both sexes.

Androphagous – man-eating; cannibalistic.

Anechoic – free from echoes or reverberation.

Anemographic – relating to recording wind.

Anemometric – relating to measuring wind.

Anemophilous – pollinated by wind (botany).

Anfractuous – winding, circuitous, intricate.

Anginous – relating to angina (throat or chest pain).

Angiocarpous – having seeds enclosed in fruit.

Angiogenic – relating to the formation of new blood vessels.

Angiomatous – resembling a tumor of blood vessels.

Anguilliform – shaped like an eel.

Animadversive – critical, censorious.

Animastic – relating to animism.

Animistic – attributing spirits to natural objects.

Annular – ring-shaped.

Anodal – relating to an anode (electricity).

Anodic – produced by or at an anode.

Anomalous – deviating from normal or expected.

Anomic – lacking social norms.

Anopisthographic – having writing only on one side of a document.

Anorthic – having a triclinic crystal structure.

Antagonistic – actively opposing or hostile.

Antarchic – opposing government or authority.

Antediluvian – ridiculously old-fashioned; before the biblical flood.

Antemeridian – occurring before noon.

Anterograde – directed forward; medical: memory loss of new events.

Anthracitic – relating to anthracite coal.

Anthropocentric – viewing humans as the center of existence.

Anthropogenic – caused by humans (e.g., climate change).

Anthropological – relating to the study of humans.

Anthropomorphic – attributing human traits to non-human things.

Antic – grotesque, funny, or bizarre.

Anticlerical – opposed to church influence.

Anticyclonic – relating to high-pressure weather systems.

Antidotal – serving as a remedy or counteracting poison.

Antimonarchical – opposed to monarchy.

Antinomian – rejecting moral law in favor of faith.

Antipodal – opposite in position.

Antiquarian – relating to old or rare items.

Antiquated – old-fashioned, outdated.

Antisymmetric – opposite yet balanced symmetry.

Antithetic – directly opposed or contrasting.

Antiviral – acting to prevent or treat viruses.

Anuran – relating to frogs or toads.

Anurous – tailless (zoology).

Aortic – relating to the aorta (major artery).

Apatetic – camouflaged in appearance.

Apathic – lacking emotion or energy.

Apheliotropic – turning away from sunlight.

Aphonic – without sound; voiceless.

Aphrodisiacal – stimulating sexual desire.

Apian – relating to bees.

Apical – at the tip or apex.

Apicultural – relating to beekeeping.

Apish – silly, foolish, or like an ape.

Aplanatic – free from distortion (optics).

Aplastic – relating to defective cell growth.

Apneic – relating to sleep apnea or breathlessness.

Apocarpous – with separate carpels (botany).

Apocrine – relating to sweat glands.

Apocryphal – of doubtful authenticity.

Apodictic – clearly established or undeniable.

Apogean – relating to apogee (farthest orbital point).

Apollonian – harmonious, ordered, rational (vs. Dionysian).

Apomictic – reproducing asexually without fertilization.

Aponeurotic – relating to a flat tendon (aponeurosis).

Apoplectic – enraged, furious; also relating to stroke.

Aporetic – expressing puzzlement or doubt.

Apostolic – relating to the apostles.

Appositional – placed side by side (grammar, biology).

Aprioristic – based on reasoning independent of experience.

Apsidal – relating to an apse (architecture).

Aptitudinal – relating to natural ability.

Apyrase-like – enzyme-related, breaking down ATP (rare bio usage).

FAQ: Adjectives Starting With A