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saṇikaṁ

saṇika

adverb, accusative singular neuter form of saṇika (adjective)

1. slowly
2. gently
3. gradually

Built from

• saṇ — root · creep, move slowly
  The root conveys careful, deliberate motion; cognate with Sanskrit śaṇ-.
• ika — ending · adjectival suffix
  Derives an adjective expressing quality or manner.
• aṁ — ending · accusative singular neuter
  Converts the adjective to adverbial form, meaning 'in a slow manner'.

Analysis. saṇika is a primary adjective derived from the root saṇ- (to creep, move slowly); the accusative -aṁ forms an adverbial phrase meaning 'in a slow manner'

Etymology. From saṇ- (to creep, move slowly), related to Sanskrit śaṇ- and ultimately to the Indo-European root *swen- (to resound, hum)—the sense of slowness derives from the careful, deliberate quality of creeping motion.

Meanings from the Digital Pāḷi Dictionary; morphology and etymology by Claude.

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