hypothesis root word definition

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Definition of hypothesis – Learner’s Dictionary

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(Definition of hypothesis from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

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scientific methods of solving crimes, that involve examining objects or substances related to a crime

Treasure troves and endless supplies (Words and phrases meaning ‘source’)

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hypothetical (adj.)

"founded on or characterized by a hypothesis, conjectural," 1580s, from Latinized form of Greek hypothetikos "pertaining to a hypothesis," from hypothesis (see hypothesis ). Hypothetic (1670s) is less common. Related: Hypothetically .

Entries linking to hypothetical

1590s, "a particular statement;" 1650s, "a proposition, assumed and taken for granted, used as a premise," from French hypothese and directly from Late Latin hypothesis , from Greek hypothesis "base, groundwork, foundation," hence in extended use "basis of an argument, supposition," literally "a placing under," from hypo- "under" (see hypo- ) + thesis "a placing, proposition" (from reduplicated form of PIE root *dhe- "to set, put"). A term in logic; narrower scientific sense is from 1640s.

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hypothermia

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Learn how word sums combine to create English vocabulary.

Big Lig Ties

February 1, 2018

The Latin root lig and its variants li and ly mean “tie.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including lig ament, re li able and re ly . The root lig is easily recalled via the word ob lig ation, for an ob lig ation “ties” you to the doing of something.

Be No Longer Separated from "Se-"

January 15, 2018

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. A large number of English vocabulary words contain the prefix se- , which means “apart.” Examples using this prefix include se parate, se cret and se lect. An easy way to remember that the prefix se- means “apart” is through the word se cure, for when you feel se cure you are “apart” from worrying or undue care about something potentially troubling.

No Low Queue for Talking Now!

November 15, 2017

The Latin root loqu and its variant locut mean “speak.” These roots are the word origins of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including e loqu ent, loqu acious, e locut ion, and circum locut ion. The roots loqu and locut are easily recalled through the words soli loqu y, or a “talking” by oneself, and inter locut or, or a person with whom you are “talking” or conversing.

"Fort" Makes Your Vocabulary Strong!

November 1, 2017

The Latin root fort means “strong.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including ef fort , com fort , and fort e. The root fort is easily recalled via the word fort , for a “ fort ” is a “strong” building constructed so as to withstand enemy attack.

Dissect Words with Sect!

October 16, 2017

The Latin root sect means “cut.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including in sect , dis sect , and inter sect . The root sect is easily recalled via the word sect ion, for a sect ion is a “cut”-off piece of a larger whole.

Cultivate "Cult" and Grow Your Vocabulary!

September 30, 2017

The Latin root cult means “grow.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including cult ure, cult ivate and horti cult ure. The root cult is easily recalled via the word agri cult ure, for agri cult ure is the “growing” of plants via farming.

The Father Pattern "Patr"

September 1, 2017

The Latin root patr means “father.” This Latin root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including pater nity, patter n, and patr on. The root patr is easily recalled via the word patr iotic, as someone who is acting in a patr iotic fashion is supporting the "father"land.

"Anim" Animates Words

June 1, 2017

The Latin root anim means “mind” or “spirit.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including un anim ous, anim ated, and anim osity. The root anim is easily recalled via the word anim al, for an anim al is a living, moving creature and so contains a “spirit” and “mind.”

Mother Matr Does Matter

May 15, 2017

The Latin root matr means “mother.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including matr iarch, mater ial, and matter . The root matr is easily recalled via the word mater nal, for a woman who acts in a mater nal fashion is being “motherly.”

May Dur Be Hard and Durable

May 1, 2017

The Latin root dur means “hard.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including en dur e, dur ing, and dur ation. The root dur is easily recalled via the word en dur e, for if you can en dur e a trial, you are “hard” enough to withstand its challenges.

"Stat" Stands at the Ready!

April 14, 2017

The Latin root stat and its variant stit mean “stand.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including stat e, stat ue, con stit ution and super stit ion. The root stat is easily recalled via the word stat ionary or “standing” still, whereas stit can be recalled via in stit ute, to make something like an organization “stand” by creating it.

Go Get "It"!

March 31, 2017

The Latin root it means “go.” This Latin root is the word origin of and so “goes” through a number of English vocabulary words, including trans it , amb it ion, and in it ials. The root it is easily recalled via the word ex it , which is the part of the building where you “go” out.

Burst Open Words with "Rupt"

March 16, 2017

The Latin root rupt means “burst.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including dis rupt , rupt ure, and inter rupt . The root rupt is easily recalled via the word bank rupt , for if you’ve gone bank rupt your bank account has “burst,” spilling out all its contents and leaving you with no money!

Time Is "Temp"orary

February 28, 2017

The Latin root temp means “time.” This Latin root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including con temp orary, temp orary, and the Latin phrase temp us fugit. The root temp is easily recalled via the word temp o, as the temp o of a piece of music is the “timing” of it, that is, whether it goes at a fast or slow pace when played.

"Rule" the Root "Arch"

February 16, 2017

The Greek root arch means “rule.” This Greek root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including matri arch , patri arch , and olig arch y. The root arch is easily recalled via the word an arch y, which is a period of time in which there is no “rule” at all in a country.

Ag and Ig "Do" It All

February 1, 2017

The Latin root ag and its variant ig mean “do.” These roots are the word origins of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including ag ent, ag ile, lit ig ate, and cast ig ate. The roots ag and ig are easily recalled through the words ag enda, or things to be “done,” and nav ig ate, the “doing” or “driving” of a ship.

Actors Act or "Do" It!

January 15, 2017

The Latin root act means “do.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including act or, act ion, and act ive. The root act is easily recalled via the word act , for an act is something having been “done.”

What the "Fus" Is All About

January 1, 2017

The Latin root fus means “pour.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including fus ion, fus e, and con fus e. The root fus is easily recalled via the word re fus e, for to re fus e to do something asked of you is to “pour” the request right back to the person doing the requesting!

Err Not with "Err"

December 1, 2016

The Latin root word err means “wander” or “make a mistake,” which is a “wandering” from the correct answer. This Latin root is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including err ant and err atic. The root err is easily recalled via the word err or, which is a “wandering” from the right answer.

Run the Curr Course

November 15, 2016

The Latin root word curr means “run.” This Latin root is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words through which it “runs,” including curr ency, cur sor, and curr iculum. The root curr is easily recalled via an ocean curr ent, which “runs” by itself since it is surrounded by waters that are relatively still.

Working with "Labor"

November 1, 2016

The Latin root word labor means “work.” This Latin root is the word origin of a “working” number of English vocabulary words, including col labor ate, labor itself, and e labor ate. The root labor is easily recalled via the word labor atory, for that is where scientists do their “work.”

The Intensive Prefix "Ob-"

October 15, 2016

The prefix ob- , besides meaning “against” or “towards,” can also act as an intensive prefix. An intensive prefix can effectively be translated as “thoroughly” to highlight its emphatic function. The intensive nature of the prefix ob- shows up in such words as ob tuse and ob durate. An example to help remember this intensive prefix is the word ob tain, for when you ob tain something you “thoroughly” hold onto it.

Rogue Root "Rog" Fully Interrogated

October 1, 2016

The Latin root word rog means “ask.” This Latin root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including inter rog ate, ar rog ant, and pre rog ative. The root rog is easily recalled via the word inter rog ative, for an inter rog ative is a question word that “asks” a question, such as “who,” “what,” “how,” “why,” or “where.”

"Ob-" No Longer Against or Un"toward"

September 15, 2016

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix ob- usually means “against, in the way” or “towards.” An example of ob- when it means “towards” is the word ob ligation, or a tying of some duty “towards” you; in the case of ob- meaning “against” or “in the way,” the word ob stacle" refers to that which stands “against” you, “in the way” of proceeding from point A to point B.

A Writing Over and Upon Epi-

September 1, 2016

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix epi- , which means “over” or “upon,” appears in a good number of English vocabulary words, such as epi dermis and epi taph. You can remember that the prefix epi- means “upon” from the noun epi demic, which is a widespread disease that comes “upon” people; you can also recall that epi- means “over” via the word epi dermis, which is the outer skin that lies “over” lower layers of skin.

Breathe Easy with "Spir"

May 16, 2016

The Latin root word spir means “breathe.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including in spir e, re spir ation, and e xpir e. The root spir is easily recalled via the word per spir ation, that is, sweat in the act of “breathing” through the pores of your skin.

On a Roll with "Volv"

May 2, 2016

The Latin root word volv and its variants volut and volt mean “roll” or “turn round.” These roots are the word origins of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including re volv e, in vol ve, e volut ion, and re volt . The roots volv and volut are easily recalled through the words in volv e, or “roll” in, and re volut ion, or a “rolling” back against a current government or other system in power.

"Posit" Positively Positioned!

April 15, 2016

The Latin root word posit means “placed.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including op posit e, com posit ion, and posit itself. The Latin root word posit is easily recalled through the word posit ion, for a “ posit ion” is the way in which you find yourself “placed.”

Invoke Vocabulary

April 1, 2016

The Latin root word voc and its variant vok both mean “call.” These roots are the word origins of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including voc al, voc abulary, in vok e, and pro vok e. The roots voc and vok are easily recalled through the words voc al, of “calling,” and re vok e, to “call” back.

A Dialogue About "Dia-"

March 15, 2016

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. A fair number of English vocabulary words contain the prefix dia- , which means “across.” Examples using this prefix include dia logue, dia gonal, and dia betes. An easy way to remember that the prefix dia- means “across” is through the word dia meter, for the dia meter of a circle is the measurement “across” it.

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

March 1, 2016

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix extra- , which means “outside,” appears in a fair number of English vocabulary words, such as extra , extra terrestrial, and extra ordinary. You can remember that the prefix extra- means “outside” from the adjective extra ordinary, which refers to something which is “outside” or beyond what is usually considered ordinary.

All Words Created with "Equ"

February 15, 2016

The Latin root word equ means “equal.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including ad equ ate, equ ator, and equ ality. The Latin root word equ is easily recalled through the word equ ation, for both sides of an equ ation are, by definition, “equal” to one another!

No Fiddling Around with Fid!

February 1, 2016

The Latin root word fid means “trust.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including con fid ent, fid elity, and per fid y. The Latin root word fid is easily recalled through the popular dog name “Fido,” whom his master can “trust” to be ever loyal.

Dis- Keeping Things Distant

January 1, 2016

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. A large number of English vocabulary words contain the prefix dis- , which means “apart.” Examples using this prefix include dis tant, dis ease, and dis qualify. An easy way to remember that the prefix dis- means “apart” is through the word dis order, for items which are dis ordered are “apart” from being “ordered,” hence are not ordered or are in quite the mess.

Thoroughly Perfect "Per-!"

December 15, 2015

The prefix per- , besides meaning “through,” can also act as an intensive prefix, adding emphasis to a given word’s root. An intensive prefix can be effectively translated as “thoroughly” or “very” to highlight its emphatic function. For instance, the prefix per- , such as in per fect, means to do something so “thoroughly” that nothing more can be done to it.

December 1, 2015

The Latin root word ego means “I.” This Latin root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including ego and ego tistical. The Latin root word ego is easily recalled through the English word ego —someone with a big ego is always thinking about number one, that is, himself, and how great he is.

The "Ge" Hypothesis

November 16, 2015

The Greek root word ge , commonly used in the English prefix geo- , means “earth.” This Greek root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including ge ology, ge ography, and ge ometry. The Greek root word ge is easily recalled through the English word ge ology, which is the study of the “earth.”

Terrific Terra

November 1, 2015

The Latin root word terr means “earth, land.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including terr ain, terr arium, and Medi terr anean. The Latin root word terr is easily recalled through the English word terr ain, for the terr ain of an area is what the “earth” or “land” is like there.

A New Perspective on "Per-"

October 15, 2015

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix per- , which means “through,” appears in hundreds of English vocabulary words, such as per ish and per son. You can remember that the prefix per- means “through” via the word per manent, for something that is per manent stays intact “through” the years.

plexweaveplexweaveplexweaveplexweaveplex

October 1, 2015

The Latin root word plex means “weave.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including com plex ity, per plex ed, and googol plex . The Latin root word plex is easily recalled through the word du plex , for a “du plex ” is a single building in which two living spaces have been “woven” together.

Spectacles Make the World Conspicuous!

September 15, 2015

The Latin root word spect and its variant spic both mean “see.” These roots are the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including spect ator, re spect , au spic ious and su spic ion. The root spect is easily recalled through the word spect acles, whose function is giving you the ability to “see,” and spic is con spic uous, or easily “seen” through, yes, con spic uous!

Give Yourself Credit

September 1, 2015

The Latin root word cred means “believe.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including cred it, cred o, and cred entials. The Latin root word cred is easily recalled through the English word in cred ible, for if something in cred ible happens it can hardly be “believed.”

Crazy "Crat" Creates Rulers

May 7, 2015

The Greek root word crat means “rule,” and the English suffix -cracy means “rule by.” This Greek root and suffix is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including the familiar terms demo crat and demo cracy . The Greek root word crat and suffix -cracy are easily recalled through these two English words, “demo cracy ” meaning “rule by” the people, and “demo crat ” being someone who specifically supports “rule” by the people.

Flowering Flor!

February 14, 2015

The Latin root word flor means “flower.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including flor ist, flor al, and Flor ida. The Latin root word flor is easily recalled through the word flor ist, for a “ flor ist” is the person who sells the “flowers” that people buy on major holidays, such as Valentine’s Day.

Happy Novel Year!

January 8, 2015

The Latin root word nov means “new.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including nov el, super nov a, and re nov ate. The Latin root word nov is easily recalled through the English word nov el, for a nov el experience is one that has never happened before and so is “new” to you.

The Influence of "Flu"

November 25, 2014

The Latin root word flu means “flow.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including flu , in flu ence, and flu id. The Latin root word flu is easily recalled through the English word flu id, for a flu id is a state of matter which, if not contained, “flows.”

Make Mort Deathless!

October 31, 2014

The Latin root word mort means “death.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including mort gage, mort uary, and im mort al. The Latin root word mort is easily recalled through the word mort al, for a “ mort al” is someone whom “death” will claim one day.

Non- Doesn't Do It

September 12, 2014

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix non- , which means “not,” appears in hundreds of English vocabulary words, such as non sense, non fat, and non returnable. You can remember that the prefix non- means “not” via the word non poisonous, for a substance that is non poisonous is “not” poisonous.

Verb's the Word

August 6, 2014

The Latin root word verb means “word.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including verb , ad verb , and pro verb . The Latin root word verb is easily recalled through the English word verb , for a verb is simply a “word” which tells what’s going on in a sentence, usually an action of some sort.

Ab-, Ab-, and Away!

July 11, 2014

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix ab- , which means “away,” appears in many English vocabulary words, such as ab sent, ab duct, and ab solute." You can remember that the prefix ab- means “away” via the word ab sent, for someone who is ab sent is “away” from a place, such as school or work.

Ante Up Before You Play!

June 9, 2014

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix ante- , which means “before,” appears in a fair number of English vocabulary words, such as ante bellum and ante date. You can remember that the prefix ante- means “before” from the poker term ante , which means to put money into the pot “before” each round of the poker game begins.

Have Your Fill of Anthropos

May 5, 2014

The Greek root word anthrop means “human.” This Greek word root is the origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including anthrop ology and anthrop omorphic. The Greek root word anthrop can be recalled through the word phil anthrop ist, for a “phil anthrop ist” is someone who etymologically “loves humans,” and so does all she or he can to help the “human” race via unselfish support.

Centr Central

April 4, 2014

The Latin root word centr means “center.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including centr al, ec centr ic, and con centr ate. The Latin root word centr is easily recalled through the word ego centr ic, for someone who is ego centr ic is someone whose own “center” or self is first and foremost, above all others.

I Am in Love with "Am"

March 5, 2014

The Latin root word am means “love.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including am ateur, am atory, and Am anda. The Latin root word am is easily recalled through the word am or, or “love,” which is not only both the Spanish and Latin words for “love,” but is often used in English to refer to Cupid, the god of “love” whom we see flying around on Valentine’s Day causing so much trouble!

Lock "Loc" in Place!

February 3, 2014

The Latin root word loc means “place.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including loc al and loc omotive. The word root loc is easily recalled through the word loc ation, for a “ loc ation” is simply a “place” where something or someone is.

Hun Dread No Longer

January 6, 2014

The Latin root word “cent” which means “one hundred” and the prefix centi- which means “one-hundredth” are both important morphemes in the English language. Some examples of words that derive from both this word root and prefix include per cent , cent , centi liter, and centi gram. An easy way to remember the root cent is through the word cent ury, which is a period of “one hundred” years; a centi meter on the other hand is “one-hundredth” of a meter.

Deduce Derivatives with De-!

February 13, 2013

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix de- , which means “off” or “from,” appears in hundreds of English vocabulary words, such as de jected, de duce, and de ficient. You can remember that the prefix de- means “from” or “off” via the word de scend, or to climb down “from” or “off” a height, such as a mountain.

Drive Your"self" Through Words with Auto-!

February 7, 2013

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The Greek prefix auto- means “self.” Good examples using the prefix auto- include auto motive and auto pilot. An easy way to remember that the prefix auto- means “self” is through the word auto biography, or the history of a person which is written by that person her"self."

Medi No Middling Vocab Medic!

January 16, 2013

The Latin root word medi means “middle.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including medi eval, medi ocre, and medi a. This Latin root word medi is easily recalled through the word med ium, for a “ med ium” temperature is right in the “middle” of being hot and cold.

Prim and Proper: First Things First!

January 8, 2013

The Latin root word prim which means “first” is an important contributor to the English language. This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English words, such as prim e, prim itive, and prim ate. Perhaps the easiest way to remember that prim means “first” is through the adjective prim ary, for a prim ary concern is “first” above all others.

A Multitude of "Multi-" Words

December 12, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix multi- means “many.” Examples using this prefix include multi vitamin and multi plication. An easy way to remember that the prefix multi- means “many” is to think about being super rich, for if you were a multi millionaire, you would have “many” millions of dollars!

A Posting After "Post-"

December 5, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix post- means “after.” Examples using this prefix include post game and post season. An easy way to remember that the prefix post- means “after” is through the word post pone, for when you post pone something, you put it on your agenda to do “after” the current time.

Motor Along with Mot!

November 26, 2012

The Latin root word mot means “move.” This Latin root is the word origin of a large number of English vocabulary words, including mot ivation, re mot e, and e mot ion. The root word mot is easily recalled through the word mot ion, for mot ion is nothing but “moving” of some kind.

Solved by A Root Solution

October 24, 2012

The Latin root words solv and its variant solut both mean “loosen.” These Latin roots are the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including dis solv e, solv ent, ab solut e, and re solut ion. The Latin root solv is easily recalled through the word solv e, or the “loosening” or untying of a complex problem, whereas the word solut ion is that which has “loosened” or untied the knot of the problem.

Recycling That Circle--Again!

October 17, 2012

The Greek root word cycl means “circle.” This Greek root is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including uni cycl e, re cycl e, and Cycl ops. Perhaps the easiest way to remember that the Greek root word cycl means “circle” is through the word bi cycl e, which possesses two “circles” in the form of wheels.

Capit Is Heads Above!

October 2, 2012

The Latin root word capit means “head.” This Latin root is the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including capt ain and de capit ate. The root word capit is easily recalled through the word capit al, the “head” city of a state, such as Madison being the capit al of Wisconsin.

"Seeing" Provides Good Vision!

September 26, 2012

The Latin root words vis and its variant vid both mean “see.” These Latin roots are the word origin of a good number of English vocabulary words, including vis ual, in vis ible, pro vid e, and e vid ence. The Latin root vis is easily recalled through the word vis ion, someone’s ability to “see,” whereas vid can be remembered through vid eo, or moving images which you “see” on a screen.

Not in Name Only!

June 22, 2012

The Greek root word onym means “name.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including syn onym and ant onym . The root onym is easily recalled through the word an onym ous, which refers to someone going around without a “name.”

Ad- Adds Up!

May 30, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The English prefix ad- means “to, towards.” Examples using this prefix include ad mit and ad just. An easy way to remember that the prefix ad- means “towards” is through the word ad vertise, for when you ad vertise you try to turn potential buyers “towards” the product you are selling.

Name Dropping No More

May 23, 2012

The Latin root word nom means “name.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including nom inee and de nom inator. The root nom is easily recalled through the word nom inate, which refers to someone being “named” to run for office.

A Truly Very Good Root!

May 16, 2012

The Latin root word ver means “truth” or “true.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including ver dict and ver acity. The root ver is easily recalled through the word ver y, for when something is ver y good, it’s “truly” good.

May 4, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The Greek prefix a- and its variant an- mean “not.” An easy way to remember that the prefix a- means “not” is through the word a political, which describes a person who is “not” inclined to favor politics. Someone who is an onymous is going around “not” having a name.

Son: Sounds Great!

April 25, 2012

The Latin root word son means “sound.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including son ar and son ata. The root son is easily recalled through the word son ic, for a son ic boom makes a deafening “sound.”

Lev Relieves!

April 19, 2012

The Latin root word lev means “light in weight.” This root is the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including e lev ator and lev er. The root lev is easily recalled through the word lev itate: to make someone so “light” in weight that she can float above the ground.

Scribes Write Scripts

April 11, 2012

The Latin root word scrib and its variant script both mean “write.” These roots are the word origin of a fair number of English vocabulary words, including scrib e, de scrib e, post script , and manu script . The root scrib is easily recalled through the word scrib e, whose job is “writing,” and script , a “written” document.

Overly Hyper! Whoa!

April 4, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix hyper- means “over.” Examples using this prefix include hyper ventilate and hyper sensitive. An easy way to remember that the prefix hyper- means “over” is through the word hyper active, which describes a person who is “overly” active in some way.

No Hippo Under Hypo!

March 29, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The Greek prefix hypo- is an important morpheme of the English language. Examples using this prefix include hypo thermia and hypo critical. An easy way to remember that the prefix hypo- means “under” is through the adjective hypo dermic, which refers to going “under” the skin, especially when being given a shot.

Biannual? Biennial?

March 21, 2012

The Latin root word ann and its variant enn both mean “year.” These roots are the word origin of various English vocabulary words, including ann iversary and cent enn ial. The roots ann and enn are easily remembered through the words ann iversary, which is the turning of another “year,” and mill enn ium, a period of 1000 “years.”

Triple Threat

March 15, 2012

The English prefix tri- , derived from both Greek and Latin, means “three.” Some common English vocabulary words that contain this prefix include tri athlon, tri o, and tri angle. You can easily remember that the prefix tri- means “three” via the word tri cycle, which is a bicycle with “three” wheels instead of two that promotes stability for young riders.

Symply Synsational Together!

March 12, 2012

The English prefixes syn- along with its variant sym- , derived from Greek, mean “together.” You can remember syn- easily by thinking of syn onym, which is a word that goes “together” with another word because it has a similar meaning. You can remember sym- by thinking of sym phony, which is a group of instruments making sound “together.”

Manage Handy "Man"

March 6, 2012

The Latin root word man means “hand.” This root word is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including manu script, manu facture, and mani cure. An easy way to remember that man means “hand” is through the word manu al, an adjective which describes a task done by “hand.”

Double with Bi- and Di-!

February 29, 2012

The English prefixes bi- , derived from Latin, and its Greek variant di- both mean “two.” The Latin prefix is far more prevalent in common words, such as bi lingual, bi ceps, and bi ped; the more technical Greek di- appears in such words as di phthong and di lemma. You can remember bi- easily by thinking of bi cycle, which has “two” wheels, and di- by remembering that the “dioxide” of carbon di oxide means that there are “two” oxygen atoms in the molecule CO2.

Nothing Phony About Phon!

February 28, 2012

The Greek root word phon means “sound.” This word root is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including micro phon e, phon e, and sax ophone. An easy way to remember that phon means “sound” is through the word sym phon y, which is many instruments making a “sound” together.

Anticipate Anti-!

February 21, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The origin of the prefix anti- and its variant ant- is an ancient Greek word which meant “against” or “opposite.” These prefixes appear in numerous English vocabulary words, such as anti freeze, anti dote, ant onym, and ant acid. An easy way to remember that the prefix anti- means “opposite” or “against” is through the word anti social, for an anti social person is the “opposite” of being social, or is “against” being so in her everyday conduct.

Don't Hesitate over Her!

February 16, 2012

The Latin root word her and its variant hes both mean “stick.” These roots are the word origin of various English vocabulary words, including ad her e and ad hes ive. When glue ad her es to paper, it “sticks” to it, for glue is an ad hes ive which causes things to “stick” together.

Micro-: Not a "Small" Prefix

February 9, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The origin of the prefix micro- is an ancient Greek word which meant “small.” This prefix appears in no “small” number of English vocabulary words; micro phone, micro wave, and micro manager are a few noteworthy examples. An easy way to remember that the prefix micro- means “small” is through the word micro scope, an instrument which allows the viewer to see “small” living things.

Omega, Oh My!

February 6, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The origin of the prefix mega- is an ancient Greek word which meant “large.” This prefix appears in a somewhat “large” number of “large” English vocabulary words, such as mega phone, mega hit, and mega byte. An easy way to remember that the prefix mega- means “large” is through the word mega store, which is simply a store that is very “large” in floor area.

Poly- Wants Many Crackers!

February 2, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The origin of the prefix poly- is from an ancient Greek word which meant “many.” This prefix appears in, well, “many” English vocabulary words, such as poly syllabic, poly hedron, and Poly nesia. An easy way to remember that the prefix poly- means “many” is through the word poly gon, which is a geometric figure, such as a square or pentagon, that has “many” angles.

A Path Towards Feeling or Disease

January 30, 2012

The Greek root word path can mean either “feeling” or “disease.” This word root is the word origin of a number of English vocabulary words, including sym path y, a path y, path ological, and socio path . An easy way to remember these different meanings is that a sym path etic person “feels” pain with another, whereas a psycho path does twisted things because he has a “diseased” mind.

Mono a Mono

January 26, 2012

The prefix mono- and its variant mon- , which both mean “one,” are important prefixes in the English language. For instance, the prefix mono- gave rise to the words mono logue and mono tonous, whereas we find its variant mon- in words such as mon archy and mon k. A mon archy, for instance, is rule by “one,” whereas a mono syllabic word only has “one” syllable.

One at a Time

January 23, 2012

The prefix uni- which means “one” is an important prefix in the English language. For instance, the prefix uni- gave rise to the words uni cycle, uni form, and uni son. Perhaps the easiest way to remember that uni- means “one” is through the word uni corn, or mythological horse that had “one” horn.

No Opposition Against Contra

January 19, 2012

The prefix contra- and its variant counter- mean “opposite” or “against.” For instance, the prefix contra- gave rise to the words contra dict and contra st, whereas the variant spelling counter- gave rise to counter act and counter feit. To contra dict someone is to speak “against” what she is saying, whereas a counter clockwise direction is “opposite” of the normal way a clock’s hands usually run.

Propel Vocab Forward with Pro

January 17, 2012

The prefix pro- primarily means “forward” but can also mean “for.” Some words that the prefix pro- gave rise to are pro mise, pro , and pro mote. When you, for instance, make pro gress, you are stepping “forward,” whereas if you give the pro s in an argument, you are speaking “for” something by stating its advantages.

Words from Literary History

January 12, 2012

Eponyms play a smaller role than Latin and Greek root words in forming English vocabulary, but nevertheless are important for learning the word origins of English vocabulary. An eponym is an English word that is derived from a name, such as that of a person or place. Today we will explore three eponyms derived from the history of literature: serendipity , braggadocio , and bowdlerize .

Round and Round in Circles

January 9, 2012

The prefix circum- which means “around” and the Latin root word circ which mean “ring” both are influential in making up English words. For instance, the prefix circum- gave rise to the words circum ference and circum stances, whereas the root circ gave rise to circ le and circ ulation. Clearly a circum ference is the bearing “around” a circle, whereas a circ le itself is in the form of a “ring.”

Superman Surpasses All Superheroes

January 6, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix super- and its variant sur- mean “over.” Examples using this prefix include super ior, super vise, sur name, and sur face. An easy way to remember that the prefix super- means “over” is through the comic book hero Super man, who is the man “over” all other men in terms of physical power.

Undertake the Sub Prefix Subway

January 3, 2012

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix sub- , with its variants which all begin with su- , is a prolific part of the English language. Examples using this prefix include sub way, suf fer, sup ply, and sug gest. An easy way to remember that the prefix sub- means “under” is through the word sub marine, or a vehicle that travels “under” the sea.

Pedal to the Podiatrist

December 20, 2011

The Latin root word ped and its Greek counterpart pod both mean “foot.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including ped al centi ped e, pod ium, and pod iatrist. Humans, for instance, are bi ped al because they walk on two “feet,” whereas a tri pod is a stand for a camera that has three “feet.”

Hang On and Weigh In!

December 13, 2011

The Latin root word pend and its variant pens both mean “hang” or “weigh.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including pend , pend ant, sus pens e, and ex pens ive. An easy way to remember these different meanings is that a pend ant “hangs” from your neck, whereas you have to “weigh” out a lot of money if something is ex pens ive.

Etymology: Word Origins

December 9, 2011

Etymology is that part of linguistics that studies word origins. English vocabulary words are formed from many different sources, especially Latin and Greek. By determining the origins of the morphemes in English words, one is better able to remember and determine the dictionary definitions of words.

Intensive Prefixes "E-" and "Ex-"

December 6, 2011

The prefixes e- and ex- , besides meaning “out,” can also act as intensive prefixes. These prefixes can effectively be translated as “thoroughly” to highlight their intensive function. For instance, the prefix e- , such as in e lude, means to “thoroughly” avoid someone, whereas the intensive prefix ex- in ex claim means to “thoroughly” shout out.

Don't "X" Out "Ex!"

December 1, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix ex- , with its variants e- and ec- , mean “out.” Examples using this prefix include ex ceed, e ject, and ec centric. An easy way to remember that the prefix ex- means “out” is through the word ex it, for when you ex it a room, you go “out” of it.

"Magn" the Magnificent

November 29, 2011

The Latin root word magn means “great.” This root word is the origin of numerous English vocabulary words, including magn ificent, magn itude, and magn animous. An easy way to remember that magn means “great” is through the word magn ifying glass, which makes something small “great” in size.

Inter- Arresting

November 22, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix inter- means “between.” This prefix appears in numerous English vocabulary words, such as Inter net, inter esting, and inter view. An easy way to remember that the prefix inter- means “between” is through the word inter national, for inter national competitions occur “between” nations.

Take the "Trans" Train

November 18, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary. The prefix trans- and its variant tra- , which mean “across,” appear in many English vocabulary words, for example: trans mit, trans form, and tra jectory. Consider the word trans lation, which is the carrying “across” from one language into another.

Recapping the Year

November 15, 2011

Today we’re celebrating our 50th rootcast. Hooray! We’ll re-cap (or “take again”) some of the highlights of Word Root Of The Day rootcasts, and summarize what we’ve learned.

Don't Shut Down "Clud"

November 8, 2011

The Latin root word clud and its variants clus and clos all mean “shut.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including ex clud e, ex clus ive, and clos et. When you in clud e someone, you “shut” him in, thus performing the act of in clus ion, thereby clos ing or “shutting” him into your group.

Grad Steps on the Gress

November 4, 2011

The Latin root word grad and its variant gress both mean “step.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including grad uate, grad ual, ag gress ive, and e gress . When you grad uate, you are ready for the next “step” in your education; likewise, when you make a great deal of pro gress , you have “stepped” forward.

"Pre-": The Prefix of Prefixes

November 1, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix pre- , which means “before,” appears in numerous English vocabulary words, for example: pre dict, pre vent, and pre fix! An easy way to remember that the prefix pre- means “before” is through the word pre vent, for when you come “before” something else to stop it from happening, you pre vent it.

Moving the Ced Procession

October 28, 2011

When studying root words, there are often spelling variants to a primary root word. The root word ced : “go,” for instance, present in the words pre ced e and re ced e, has variant spellings of cess and ceed . Examples pro ceed ing from these variant spellings, all of which mean “go” as well, are ex cess and ex ceed .

October 25, 2011

The Latin root word ced means “go.” This root is the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including ac ced e, se ced e, and re ced e. An easy way to remember this root word is by the word pre ced e, for when one thing pre ced es another, it “goes” before it.

Sid Sits with Sed

October 21, 2011

The Latin root word sid and its variant sed both mean “sit.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including sed ative, sed iment, pre sid ent, and re sid e. For instance, a re sid ence is a place where its re sid ents are able to “sit” back; a sed entary person likes to “sit” around a lot instead of being active.

The Fascinating Parts of Words

October 18, 2011

Morphology is the study of how words are put together by using morphemes, which include prefixes, roots, and suffixes. Parsing the different morphemes in a word reveals meaning and part of speech. For instance, the word “invention” includes the prefix in- + the root vent + the suffix -ion , from which is formed the noun “invention.”

Intense Prefixes

October 14, 2011

Some prefixes highly emphasize roots of words to which they are attached. These prefixes can effectively be translated as “thoroughly” to highlight their intensive function. For instance, the prefix re- , which can mean “back” or “again,” can also mean “thoroughly,” such as in the word re splendent, or “thoroughly” shining or bright.

TheRE and Back Again

October 11, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix re- , which means “back” or “again,” appears in hundreds of English vocabulary words, for example: re ject, re generate, and re vert. You can remember that the prefix re- means “back” via the word re turn, or turn “back;” to remember that re- means “again” consider re arrange, or arrange “again.”

October 6, 2011

The Latin root word mal means “bad” or “evil.” This root is the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including mal formed, mal treat, and mal ice. You can recall that mal means “bad” through mal function, or a “badly” working part, and that it means “evil” through mal ice, or intentional “evil” done to another.

Eponyms from Ancient Greece

October 4, 2011

Words from which eponyms derive play a smaller role than Latin and Greek root words in forming English vocabulary, but nevertheless are important for learning the word origins of English vocabulary. An eponym is an English word that is derived from a name, such as that of a person or place. Today we will explore three eponyms from the history of ancient Greece: Pyrrhic , spartan , and epicurean .

Vent No More with Ven

September 30, 2011

The Latin root word ven and its variant vent both mean “come.” These roots are the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including pre vent , in vent , ven ue, and con ven ient. When you in vent something, for instance, you “come” upon it for the first time, whereas a ven ue is a place to which people “come,” often for an e vent .

Hold the Spelling Variants of "Ten" in Mind

September 27, 2011

When studying root words, there are often spelling variants to a primary root word. The root word ten : “hold,” for instance, present in the words ten ant and main ten ance, has variant spellings of tin , tain , and tent . Examples con tain ing these variant spellings, all of which mean “hold” as well, are con tin ue, abs tain , and tent ative.

Hold a Perfect "Ten"

September 23, 2011

The Latin root word ten means “hold.” This root is the word origin of many English vocabulary words, including main ten ance, ten or, and ten acious. Perhaps the easiest way to remember this root word is through the English noun ten ant, for a ten ant “holds” the lease of the property where she lives.

Different Spellings of the Prefix "Con-"

September 20, 2011

Prefixes often undergo spelling changes depending upon the stem, or main part of the word, to which they are affixed. The prefix con- , for example, can exist in the following forms: co- , col- , com- , and cor- . Examples of words containing such forms include co operate, col laborate, com panion, and cor rect.

Thoroughly Together With "Con-"

September 15, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary that begin words. The prefix con- , which means “with” or “thoroughly,” appears in numerous English vocabulary words, for example: con nect, con sensus, and con clude. An easy way to remember that the prefix con means “with” is through the word con nect, or join “with.” A way to remember that it means “thoroughly” is through con clude, or “thoroughly” close a matter.

Eponyms from Literature

September 9, 2011

Words from which eponyms derive play a smaller role than Latin and Greek root words in forming English vocabulary, but nevertheless are important for learning the word origins of English vocabulary. An eponym is an English word that is derived from a name, such as that of a person or place. Today we will explore three eponyms from literature: malapropism , stentorian , and Machiavellian .

Take the Variants of "Cept" into Consideration

September 6, 2011

When studying root words, there are often numerous variants to a primary root word. The primary root word cept : “taken,” for instance, present in the words con cept and in cept ion, has variant spellings of cap , cip , and ceiv . Examples containing these variant spellings, all of which mean “take” as well, are cap able, re cip ient, and re ceiv e.

Accept No Exceptions!

September 2, 2011

The Latin root word cept means “taken.” This root word gives rise to many English vocabulary words, including de cept ion, con cept , and ex cept . Perhaps the easiest way to remember this root word is through the word ac cept , for when you have ac cept ed something, you have “taken” it towards yourself.

Different Spellings of the Prefix "In"

August 30, 2011

Prefixes often undergo spelling changes depending upon the stem to which they are affixed. The prefix in , for example, can exist in the following forms: il , im , in , ir , and ig . Examples of words containing such forms include il legal, im bibe, in nate, ir regular, and ig noble.

Plowing the Roots Field with "Tract"or

August 23, 2011

The Latin root word tract means “drag” or “pull.” This root word gives rise to many English vocabulary words, including at tract ion, sub tract , and con tract . Perhaps the easiest way to remember this root word is through the English word tract or, for a tract or’s main function is to “drag” or “pull” heavy equipment.

Prefixes and the Prefix "In"

August 19, 2011

Prefixes are key morphemes in English vocabulary. The prefix in , which means “in, on, or not,” appears in numerous English vocabulary words, for example: in ject, in flux, and in sane. Prefixes do tend to have different meanings, which can be divined by context, common sense, and the process of elimination.

Reverse Versus Obverse

August 16, 2011

The Latin root word vers means “turned.” This root gives rise to many English vocabulary words, including re vers e, vers ion, and con vers ation. Perhaps the easiest way to remember this root word is through the English word anni vers ary, a calendrical marker that yet another year has “turned.”

Quixotic, Gargantuan Leviathan!

August 12, 2011

Words from which eponyms derive play a smaller role than Latin and Greek root words in forming English vocabulary, but nevertheless are important for learning the word origins of English vocabulary. An eponym is an English word that is derived from a name, such as that of a person or place. Today we will explore the eponyms quixotic , gargantuan , and leviathan .

Sail into "Port"

August 9, 2011

The im port ant Latin root word port means ‘carry.’ Some common English words that use this root include im port , ex port , de port , and re port . An easy way to remember this word root is through the word port able, which is something that is easily ‘carried’ from one place to another.

Sensational 'Sens' & 'Sent'

August 5, 2011

The Latin root sent and its variant form sens mean to ‘feel.’ Some common English words that come from these two roots include sens ation, sens ible, re sent , and con sent . Remember that when you sens e something you ‘feel’ it, and when you are being sent imental, your ‘feelings’ take precedence over anything else.

The Final Word

August 1, 2011

The Latin root word fin means an ‘end,’ as in a ‘boundary’ or ‘limit.’ Some common English vocabulary words that come from this Latin root word include fin al, fin ish, and de fin ition. Perhaps the easiest way to remember that this root word means ‘end’ is through the word in fin ite, since something in fin ite has no ‘end!’

Prefix Assimilation: Mangled Letters

July 29, 2011

Common prefixes like in- and con- sometimes change their form in English words. The prefix roots in combine , collate and corrupt are all con- . Likewise the prefix roots in illegal and irregular are in- . This disguising of prefix roots is called prefix assimilation .

'Vert' Convert

July 22, 2011

The Latin root word vert means ‘turn.’ This root gives rise to many English vocabulary words, including vert ical, re vert , and con vert . This root word can keep your word sense right-side up instead of in vert ing it by ‘turning’ you upside-down.

Dictionaries Say It All!

July 19, 2011

The Latin root word dict and its variant dic both mean ‘say.’ Some common English vocabulary words that come from this word root include dict ionary, contra dict , and de dic ate. Perhaps the easiest way in which to remember this root is the word pre dict ion, for a pre dict ion is ‘said’ before something actually happens.

'Fect': Done to Perfection

July 15, 2011

The English word root fect comes from a Latin verb meaning ‘make’ or ‘do.’ Some common English words that come from fect include in fect , per fect , and de fect . A way to per fect ly remember fect is that something per fect is so well ‘done’ that it cannot be ‘made’ any better.

July 12, 2011

The Greek root word log means ‘word,’ and its variant suffix -logy means ‘study (of).’ Some common English words that use this root include bio logy , mytho logy , cata log , and pro log ue. Bio logy , of course, is the ‘study’ of life, whereas a pro log ue constitutes the ‘words’ spoken to introduce a poem or novel.

Living with 'Bio'

July 8, 2011

The Greek root word bio means ‘life.’ Some common English vocabulary words that come from this root word include bio logical, bio graphy, and amphi bi an. One easy word that is helpful in remembering bio is bio logy, or the study of ‘life.’

'Fact' the Word Factory

July 5, 2011

It’s a fact that the Latin root word fact has ‘made’ many words in English; in point of fact , it even means ‘made’ or ‘done.’ Some common English words that come from fact include manu fact ure, arti fact , and satis fact ion. A very easy way to remember fact is the original idea behind the word fact ory, which is a place where products are ‘made.’

Into the Fold

July 1, 2011

The English stem plic comes from a Latin root word meaning ‘fold.’ Some common English words that come from this word root include ap plic ation, multi plic ation, and re plic ate. Perhaps the easiest way to remember plic is through the word du plic ate, or to ‘fold’ twice, thus making two things.

Don't make this more dif'fic'ult than it should be.

June 28, 2011

The Latin root word fic means to ‘make.’ A good number of common English vocabulary words come from this root, including magni fic ent, dif fic ult, and arti fic ial. One easy word that is helpful in remembering fic is ef fic ient, for ef fic ient people are able to ‘make’ things happen.

Carry That Lat(te) over Here!

June 24, 2011

It’s time to consider the re lat ive importance of the Latin word root lat which means to ‘carry.’ Two common English words that come from this root include re lat ionship and legis lat e. Perhaps you can most re lat e to this root word, or ‘carry’ yourself back to it, with the word re lat e itself.

Dukes of 'Duc'

June 21, 2011

The Latin root words duc and duct mean to ‘lead.’ Some common English vocabulary words that come from this root word include e duc ate, re duc e, pro duc e, and pro duct . Perhaps the best way to remember this root word is to think of someone who is e duc ated, or has been ‘led’ forth into knowledge.

Carry Me Fer(ry)!

June 17, 2011

Just like a ferry carries people across the water, so too does the Latin word root fer mean to ‘carry.’ Many dif fer ent words come from fer , including pre fer , re fer , and con fer ence. Perhaps the easiest way to help remember this root word is when you trans fer money, or ‘carry’ across funds from one bank account to another.

'Ject' is Not a Word Reject!

June 14, 2011

The Latin word root ject means ‘throw.’ Many common words are ‘thrown’ about each day which use this root, including e ject , re ject , ob ject , and pro ject or. Perhaps a pointed way to help remember this word is when you receive an in ject ion, which is a shot ‘thrown’ into your body.

Graphic Writing

June 10, 2011

You’ve seen the graph root, which means ‘to write,’ written everywhere. From geo graph y classes to math graph paper to English para graph s, this root presents itself in many, many forms. Take a look at the graph ic of the graph tree, and read on with the writing below!

Chronos, the God of What?

June 7, 2011

The day-to-day cycle of time is something we become aware of before we even go to school. Every student should know that chron is the Greek root for ‘time.’ From the chron ometer to chron icling our lives, humankind is fascinated by ‘time.’ Let’s take a few minutes and get ‘in sync’ with this root word.

Mighty Morph

June 3, 2011

The root word morph comes from a Greek word meaning ‘shape.’ Ever heard of the ‘Mighty Morp hin Power Rangers’? When they are ‘ morph in’ they are changing ‘shape.’ Let’s stay in good academic ‘shape’ and take a look at the intellectual words that derive from this root.

Mental Cogs Cognition

May 31, 2011

A Latin word meaning ‘to learn’ gives rise to the English word root cogn . Primarily because of French, the root conn also comes from this root. A readily re cogn izable word that comes to mind which uses this root, is, well, re cogn ize! What else can we acquaint you with to help you ‘learn’ this root?

Keep in Word Shape Using Good Verbal Form

May 27, 2011

The root form, which means ‘shape,’ gives us a number of words that are used every day, including re form , in form ation, de form ed, and form . To ‘form," for instance, is simply ’to shape,’ whereas to re form is merely to ‘shape again.’ To keep you in verbal “shape,” let’s take a look at the way some other words are form ed!

On a Mission

May 24, 2011

The English root mit comes from a Latin word that means ‘to send.’ Mit also shows up as miss in many words, so be on the lookout! Some common words from this root include e mit , miss ion, and dis miss . So as not to o mit any knowledge, we have sub mit ted this post to explain it all.

Of Popes and Tricky Pipes

May 20, 2011

The root words fall and fals come from a Latin word that means to ‘trick.’ Some common words derived from this root word are fals e and faul t. Watch out for the ‘tricks’ this root can play, for the word fau cet (tap) is also derived from this root word, and you’ll probably be surprised to learn why.

Chop-chop, Cut-cut

May 17, 2011

Cis and its variants cid and -cide come from a Latin root which means both ‘cut’ and ‘kill.’ Some common words derived from this root include de cid e, de cis ion, and sui cide . Perhaps the best way to remember this root is by thinking of s cis sors — a scissor cuts

Fascinated by Love?

May 13, 2011

The root word phil comes from a Greek verb meaning to love . Some common words derived from phil are phil osopher, phil anthropist, and biblio phil e. Note that phil can begin the word as in phil osopher, or end it as in biblio phil e. But wherever it occurs you can be assured that phil has something to do with love .

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