👉 The smallest unit of language that has a particular meaning and can be expressed by itself; the smallest discrete, meaningful unit of language. (contrast morpheme.)
Alright class, settle down, let’s take a look!
You’ve asked a wonderful question today, it’s true – what exactly
does
“words” mean?
The dictionary gives us quite the clue, you see,
A breakdown of language, perfectly free.
It says a "word" is smallest, don't you know,
With its own special meaning, ready to show!
Think of it like this: a building block bright,
Each word stands alone with purpose and light.
Like “cat” or “sun,” or “happy” we say,
They carry a message in their own way.
Now, the dictionary also mentions a term,
A "morpheme," a concept you should learn!
Morphemes are smaller, bits of the sound,
That build up our words all around.
(Like “un-”, “happy,” and "-ing" combined with "cat",
To make "unhappy"-ing cat!" - quite a chat!)
So, a
word
is the whole package, you see,
A complete little meaning for you and me!
Do you have any questions about this rhyme? Let’s discuss it further. Are there any words that you're still unsure of their meaning?