2

What is a prefix that is similar to "public", or "accessible", or "ubiquitous" such that it is harmonious with the spirit of currency needing to be of public domain, widely adopted, accessible, etc.

It doesn't have to be of Greek origin, perhaps Latin.

|improve this question
  • 2
    Greek antonymic prefixes might include apocalypto- (from a verb meaning "reveal") or phenomeno- (from a participle meaning "shown"), but don't count on their currency in English, or even in Greek for that matter. – Brian Donovan Feb 26 '15 at 5:13
  • 1
    In addition to 'secret', a possible translation of crypto- might be 'hidden'. Given that, it occurred to me to suggest 'gymno-', which means naked or exposed. – jake-low Feb 26 '15 at 7:02
  • 2
    Could you give examples of how you would use this? It seems to me that you don't need any prefix at all, because the unprefixed word would be interpreted as open by default. – Barmar Feb 26 '15 at 15:33
  • 1
    @Barmar I was thinking about crytpocurrencies such as Bitcoin. They are by nature difficult to access, which arguably decreases the value of the commerce it drives. So I thought, well what would be the anti-cryptocurrency? – ibebian Feb 26 '15 at 15:36
  • 2
    That makes my point: currency is the anti-cryptocurrency. You need the prefix to change the normal meaning. – Barmar Feb 26 '15 at 15:37
4

Phanæro-, meaning "apparent".

The Cryptozoic (hidden life) was followed by the Phanærozoic (obvious life). Also cf phanærogam (visible seeds) and cryptogam (spores).

|improve this answer
  • 1
    Hi, Jonathan, welcome to EL&U. Can you try to include reference or link (that can support your answer) and its essential parts? Please take the tour and visit our help center for additional guidance. – user140086 Jan 14 '16 at 12:18
-1

These are all inexact antonyms but maybe they'll help:

  • co-
  • exo-
  • hyper-
  • omni-
  • over-
  • pan-
  • per-
  • peri-
  • super-
  • ultra-
|improve this answer
  • With, over, around, everywhere, above, throughout - these are close to the opposite of hidden or exclusive or inaccessible. Why the nay-saying to these prefixes? – wys1wyg Mar 11 '15 at 0:26

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.