'dative infinitive' definitions:

Definition of 'dative infinitive'

From: GCIDE
  • Gerund \Ger"und\, n. [L. gerundium, fr. gerere to bear, carry, perform. See Gest a deed, Jest.] (Lat. Gram.) [1913 Webster]
  • 1. A kind of verbal noun, having only the four oblique cases of the singular number, and governing cases like a participle. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. In Modern English, the -ing form of a verb, when functioning as a noun; as, running is good for the heart. [PJC]
  • 3. (AS. Gram.) A verbal noun ending in -e, preceded by to and usually denoting purpose or end; -- called also the dative infinitive; as, "Ic h[ae]bbe mete t[^o] etanne" (I have meat to eat.). [1913 Webster]