Definition

A word that refers to a part of something larger, which is called the whole.

Example

In the phrase 'wheel of a car', 'wheel' is a meronym because it is a part of the whole car.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term meronym?

Yeah, it's related to parts and wholes in language, right?

Exactly! A meronym is actually a part of something larger, like a wheel to a car.

That's a cool way to understand how language works!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Meronym is formed from "meros" (μέρος) (meaning part) and "-nym" (from "onoma" (ὄνομα), meaning name). The word refers to a term that denotes a part of something, highlighting the relationship between a part and the whole.

Memory Tip

Think of 'meros' meaning 'part' — a meronym is a name that refers to a part of a whole.

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