Definition

A type of morpheme that involves specific patterns of stress, intonation, or pauses in speech, which are linked to the syllables of a word or phrase.

Example

In linguistics, a superfix can change the meaning of a word by altering its stress pattern.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the concept of a superfix?

No, I haven't, what is it?

It's basically a pattern of stress in words that can change their meaning.

That sounds interesting! I need to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Superfix → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or over) and "fix" (from Latin "figere", meaning to fasten or attach). The word "superfix" means to fasten or attach something above or over another object.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'fastened' ('fix') 'above' ('super-') — that's why superfix means to attach something over another.

Visually Confused Words