What is the root word for yeah?

There isn't a single "root word" for "yeah" in the traditional sense. It evolved from a more complex phrase over time.

Here's a breakdown of its linguistic journey:

* "Yea": This was an Old English word meaning "yes."

* "Yis": This was a common pronunciation of "yes" in the 19th century, especially in Scottish English.

* "Yeah": "Yeah" emerged as a more casual and informal pronunciation of "yes" and "yis." It became popular in American English during the 20th century.

So, while "yeah" doesn't have a single root word, its origins lie in the affirmative word "yes."