Is the word beginning a verb?

Yes, "beginning" can be a verb, but it is usually used as a gerund, which is a verb form ending in "-ing" that acts as a noun.

Here are some examples:

* "Beginning" a new project can be exciting. (Gerund as the subject of the sentence)

* I am beginning to understand this. (Present participle used as part of the verb phrase)

Note: There is also a noun form of "beginning," which refers to the start of something.