CHAPTER OUTLINE

In this chapter you will learn about common ways of creating new lexemes.

• We will look at derivational affixation, considering the distinction between affixes and bases, and between free and bound bases.

• We will learn how to segment words into morphemes, how to formulate word formation rules, and how to determine the structure of words.

• We will consider what morphemes mean.

• Beyond affixation, in this chapter we will learn about processes of compounding, conversion, and other ways of creating new words.

• And you will get your first taste of morphological analysis.

KEY TERMS

derivation, affixation, compounding, conversion, coinage, blending, backformation

Introduction

Take a look at the words below:

• autoclave (v.)

• head bracelet (n.)

• conversate (v.)

• deBaathification (n.)

• oversuds (v.)

• McDonaldization (n.)

• unwipe (v.)

Have you ever heard these words before? Can you imagine what they mean?

Chances are that you haven't heard or read them before. Nevertheless, you probably didn't have much trouble figuring out at least roughly what their meanings might be. Assuming that you know that an autoclave is a device for sterilizing instruments, the verb to autoclave probably means something like ‘to sterilize using an autoclave’. A head bracelet is probably something that goes around one's head. DeBaathification must have something to do with removing the Baath (the Iraqi political party associated with Saddam Hussein). And so on. You might not know exactly what they mean, but you can make a good guess.