1. A basic definition:
* A single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing, used with others (or sometimes alone) to form a sentence and communicate thought.
2. A broader definition:
* A unit of language that has meaning and can be used in combination with other words to form phrases and sentences.
3. A more specific definition:
* A symbol, such as a character or a group of characters, that represents a word. (For example, "cat" is a word, but "cat" is also the symbol that represents that word.)
4. A definition used in linguistics:
* A minimal free form that has semantic content. (This means it can stand on its own, and has meaning.)
5. A more figurative definition:
* A promise, statement, or declaration. ("His word was his bond.")
* News or information. ("Get the word out!")
Ultimately, the specific definition of "word" depends on the context in which it is used.