1. relating to or denoting a grammatical case that typically expresses separation, direction away from, or means
Usage: grammar
2. involving the removal or wearing away of material
Usage: technical

1. the ablative case or a word in the ablative case
Usage: grammar

Examples

• In Latin, the ablative case often shows the means by which something is done.
• The preposition ‘by’ in English often corresponds to the ablative case in Latin.
• The spacecraft’s heat shield uses ablative materials to protect against reentry.
• Ablative cooling removes heat by allowing material to burn away.
• The word ‘gladio’ is in the ablative case in this Latin sentence.
• Students must learn to recognize ablative endings in Latin nouns.