A root word is the main part of a word. It is the word you start with before adding prefixes or suffixes. Root words hold the basic meaning.
Root words can stand alone, but they can also change when prefixes or suffixes are added.
When you see a long word, you can break it down to find its root word. The root word gives the main meaning, while the other parts change how the word is used.
Ask yourself: If I take away the ending or beginning, what word is left?
Knowing root words helps you read new words. If you know the root, you can often guess the meaning of the whole word.
Look for the root word first. Then think about what the other parts add to the meaning.
You can practice by starting with a root word and adding prefixes or suffixes. This will help you see how many new words can be made.
Start small. Find the root word and then add word parts to build your vocabulary.