* Root Definition: There's no universally agreed upon definition of what constitutes a "root" in Hebrew. Some linguists focus on three-consonant roots, while others include two-consonant and even single-consonant roots.
* Diachronic vs. Synchronic: Counting roots depends on whether you're looking at the language historically (diachronically) or in its current state (synchronically). Hebrew has undergone significant changes, and many roots that were active in the past are no longer used today.
* New Word Formation: Hebrew is a living language, and new words are constantly being formed. This means the number of roots is not static and continues to evolve.
Approximations and Resources:
* Some estimates suggest there are around 2,000-3,000 three-consonant roots in Hebrew.
* The Academy of the Hebrew Language is a reliable source for information on Hebrew vocabulary and linguistics. They may have data on the number of root words in their research, but it's likely to be a dynamic figure.
* Lexicons and Dictionaries: You can find extensive lists of Hebrew roots in specialized lexicons and dictionaries. These may not be exhaustive, but they can give you a good sense of the range.
In summary: While there's no definitive answer, understanding the complexities of root definition and the dynamic nature of language makes it clear that a simple numerical count is not entirely meaningful.