Definition

A type of word that comes from a verb and can act like an adjective or be used with auxiliary verbs to show tense or voice.

Example

The word 'baked' in 'The cookies are baked' is a participle.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the participle in English grammar?

Yeah, it’s that form of a verb that can act like an adjective, right?

Exactly! I find it so interesting how it can change the meaning of a sentence.

Me too! It really makes writing more dynamic.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Participle** → It is formed from "part" (from Latin *partire*, meaning to divide) and "-cipere" (from Latin *capere*, meaning to seize or take). The word "participle" refers to a form of a verb that is used to indicate a part of the action, thus dividing the action into different aspects.

Memory Tip

Think of 'part' as dividing the action and 'cipere' as taking it — a participle is a form that takes part in the action of the verb.

Visually Confused Words