Definition

The study of the smallest units of meaning in a language and how they combine to form words.

Example

Morphemics helps linguists understand how different parts of words contribute to their meanings.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of morphemics?

Yeah, I think it's about how words are structured, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how morphemes can change the meaning of words.

For sure! Learning about morphemics can really help with understanding language.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Morphemics → It is formed from "morpheme" (from Greek "morphe", meaning form or shape) and "-ics" (a suffix used in fields of study). The word refers to the study of the forms and structures of morphemes, which are the smallest units of meaning in a language.

Memory Tip

Think of 'morpheme' as the 'form' of a word, and '-ics' as the study of that form. So, morphemics is all about studying the forms that create meaning in language.

Visually Confused Words