Explanation
The smallest conventional unit that contributes grammatical or lexical meaning. It shifts attention from whole words to recurring meaningful parts.
Example
The form becomes visible in context and can be followed as a movement of interpretation.
Counterexample
A morpheme is a functional unit and need not correspond to a single sound or syllable.
Distinction
A morpheme is a functional unit and need not correspond to a single sound or syllable.
Effect on thought and perception
It shifts attention from whole words to recurring meaningful parts.
Resonance
It shifts attention from whole words to recurring meaningful parts.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Morpheme“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-MOR-0001. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-MOR-0001The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.