Background for word

word

/wɜːd/ /wɝd/

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noun

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.)

Examples :

""Happy" is a single word that expresses a feeling of joy. "

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noun

Something like such a unit of language:

Examples :

"My favorite word in the English language is "beautiful." "

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noun

The fact or act of speaking, as opposed to taking action. .

Examples :

"Instead of arguing, she chose her words carefully to avoid a fight with her brother. "

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noun

Something that someone said; a comment, utterance; speech.

Examples :

"My teacher said a kind word to encourage me. "

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noun

A watchword or rallying cry, a verbal signal (even when consisting of multiple words).

Examples :

""Quiet" was the word for the library study session. "

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noun

A proverb or motto.

Examples :

""Our family's word is, 'Treat everyone with kindness.'" "

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noun

News; tidings (used without an article).

Examples :

"Have you had any word from John yet?"

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noun

An order; a request or instruction; an expression of will.

Examples :

"My teacher gave the class a word to study for the test. "

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noun

A promise; an oath or guarantee.

Examples :

"I give you my word that I will be there on time."

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noun

A brief discussion or conversation.

Examples :

"Can I have a word with you?"

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noun

(in the plural) See words.

Examples :

"There had been words between him and the secretary about the outcome of the meeting."

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noun

(sometimes Word) Communication from God; the message of the Christian gospel; the Bible, Scripture.

Examples :

"Her parents had lived in Botswana, spreading the word among the tribespeople."

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noun

(sometimes Word) Logos, Christ.

Examples :

"Many Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Word of God. "

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verb

To say or write (something) using particular words; to phrase (something).

Examples :

"I’m not sure how to word this letter to the council."

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verb

To flatter with words, to cajole.

Examples :

"The teacher worded her instructions carefully to encourage the students to participate. "

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verb

To ply or overpower with words.

Examples :

"The salesperson tried to word the customer into buying the expensive car. "

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verb

To conjure with a word.

Examples :

"The teacher tried to word her instructions carefully so the students understood. "

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verb

To speak, to use words; to converse, to discourse.

Examples :

"The students will word their ideas clearly in their presentations. "

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interjection

Truth, indeed, that is the truth! The shortened form of the statement "My word is my bond."

Examples :

""Yo, that movie was epic!" / "Word?" ("You speak the truth?") / "Word." ("I speak the truth.")"

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interjection

(stereotypically) An abbreviated form of word up; a statement of the acknowledgment of fact with a hint of nonchalant approval.

Examples :

""The teacher said the test was hard, and the student replied, 'Word.'" "

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verb

(except in set phrases) To be, become, betide.

Examples :

"Well worth thee, me friend."

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