Here's how:
* As a noun: When "the word" refers to a specific word, it functions as a noun.
* Example: "The word 'cat' is a noun."
* Example: "The word 'love' has many meanings."
* As part of a phrase: "The word" can also be part of a phrase that functions as a noun.
* Example: "The word on the street is that the price will go up." Here, "the word on the street" acts as a noun phrase.
To determine if "the word" is functioning as a noun, consider its role in the sentence. If it refers to a specific word or represents a concept, it's likely a noun.