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Lexeme Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lexeme

[ˈlɛk.siːm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

linguistics term

A lexeme is the fundamental unit of meaning in a language, representing a set of related word forms. It is an abstract concept that encompasses all grammatical forms of a particular word, including derivations and inflections.

Synonyms

lemma, morpheme, word.

Examples of usage

  • The lexeme 'run' includes 'runs', 'running', and 'ran'.
  • In linguistics, understanding lexemes helps clarify the structure of words.
  • Every verb in English has a corresponding lexeme.
  • Lexemes form the basis of semantic understanding in sentence construction.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • Lexemes include not just single words but also phrases, like 'kick the bucket' that represent a single idea.
  • They can exist in different forms, such as 'run' as a verb and 'running' or 'ran' as its inflected forms.
  • Understanding lexemes is vital for language learning, as they help in grasping the meaning behind varying word forms.

Education

  • In teaching, recognizing lexemes can improve vocabulary skills and comprehension, aiding students in reading and writing.
  • Language games often focus on identifying lexemes, making learning fun and interactive.
  • Curriculums that emphasize lexemes help students develop a deeper understanding of language structure.

Cognitive Science

  • Human brains process lexemes as whole units rather than breaking them down, which helps in quick comprehension.
  • Research shows that recognizing lexemes improves memory retention for language learners.
  • Studies indicate that familiarity with lexemes can enhance communication skills in both spoken and written language.

Pop Culture

  • In the popular game Scrabble, players build on lexemes by creating words from letters, showcasing the fun side of vocabulary.
  • Movies and songs often play with lexemes in catchy phrases or memorable lines that stick with audiences.
  • Comic books utilize lexemes in clever ways, with unique phrases that create dynamic characters and storytelling.

Origin of 'lexeme'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'lexeme' comes from the Greek word 'lexis,' which means 'word' or 'speech.'
  • It was first used in the 1930s by linguists to describe units of meaning in language.
  • Lingua, another root word linked to 'lexeme,’ refers to the tongue or the language itself.

The term 'lexeme' originates from the 1960s in linguistics, derived from the Greek word 'lexis', meaning 'word' or 'speech'. The root 'lex-' relates to the concept of words and language. Its introduction aimed to establish a clear distinction between the abstract concept of a word and its various inflected forms. In linguistics, lexemes serve as a crucial component for semantic analysis, effectively categorizing the various iterations of a word under a common form. As linguists explored the structures and functions of language, the concept of lexemes became integral to studies in syntax, morphology, and semantics, helping to define how meaning is constructed within linguistic systems.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,072 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.