Basic Definition:
A word is a single unit of language that expresses meaning. It is a conventionalized sound or sign used to express a concept, action, or entity.
More Detailed Definition:
* Spoken: A word is a sequence of sounds, often written with letters, that has been agreed upon by a community of speakers to represent a specific meaning.
* Written: A word is a sequence of letters or characters that represents a spoken word.
* Meaning: A word carries meaning, and its meaning can be denotative (literal) and connotative (emotional or cultural).
* Syntax: Words are the building blocks of sentences and phrases, and their order and grammatical function within a sentence determine its meaning.
Beyond the Basics:
* Types of Words: There are different types of words, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, etc. Each type plays a different role in language.
* Etymology: The origin and history of a word can impact its meaning and usage.
* Polysemy: A single word can have multiple meanings.
* Figurative Language: Words can be used figuratively to create new meaning or imagery.
Ultimately, the definition of a word is fluid and dynamic. It is constantly evolving with language and is influenced by culture, context, and individual interpretation.