What does the prefix an mean?

The prefix "an" is a shortened form of the prefix "a" and means "one" or "single". It is often used to indicate a single instance of something, or a single part of a whole.

Here are some examples:

* an apple: one apple

* an hour: one hour

* an airplane: one airplane

* a nickel: one nickel

It is important to note that:

* The prefix "an" is used before words starting with a vowel sound.

* The prefix "a" is used before words starting with a consonant sound.

For example:

* an apple (vowel sound)

* a book (consonant sound)

Other meanings of "an":

In some cases, "an" can also mean:

* "not" or "without": like in "anonymous" (without a name)

* "into" or "to": like in "analysis" (to break down)

However, these are less common meanings than the primary meaning of "one" or "single."