Definition

Created by combining several parts, such as prefixes and suffixes, to form a new word from a compound.

Example

The word 'unhappiness' is an example of a parasynthetic formation.

Conversation

Have you heard about parasynthetic words in linguistics?

No, I haven't! What does that mean?

They are formed by adding multiple elements to a base word, like prefixes and suffixes.

That sounds interesting! I need to look into that more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Parasynthetic → It is formed from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "synthetic" (from Greek "synthesis", meaning putting together). The word refers to a process that involves the combination of elements alongside or in addition to a synthetic process.

Memory Tip

Think of 'para-' meaning alongside and 'synthetic' meaning putting together — parasynthetic describes a process that combines elements in addition to a synthetic method.

Visually Confused Words