Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
moneme
Noun
/ˈmɒniːm/
Definition
The smallest unit of meaning in a language that cannot be broken down further.
Examples
- A moneme can be as simple as a prefix or a suffix that adds meaning to a word.
- In the word ‘unhappiness’, both ‘un-‘ and ‘-ness’ are considered monemes contributing to the overall meaning.
Meaning
In linguistics, a moneme is a representation of a single concept or meaning that contributes to the structure of a word or phrase.
Synonyms
- Meaning unit
- Semantic unit
- Minimal meaning
