Definition

1. Noun:

   • A type of affix inserted within a base word: In linguistics, an "infix" is a bound morpheme placed inside a root or stem word to change its meaning or grammatical function. This contrasts with prefixes (added at the beginning) and suffixes (added at the end).

2. Verb:

   • To insert a morpheme into a word: The act of placing an infix within a stem word.
   • To insert or introduce something into something else: To fix or put one thing firmly into another object or context.
   • To implant or inculcate an idea firmly: To impress an idea or feeling deeply into someone's mind.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The word "fan-freaking-tastic" uses "-freaking-" as an infix for emphasis.
  • In some languages, infixes are a common grammatical feature.

• Verb:

  • Some languages infix markers to indicate verb tense.
  • The jeweler will infix the diamond into the gold setting.
  • Teachers try to infix the importance of honesty in their students.

Advanced Usage

• Linguistic Process: The term is used to describe a specific morphological process.

  • The language infixes a plural marker within the noun stem.

• Figurative Use: Used metaphorically for implanting abstract concepts.

  • The traumatic experience was infixed in her memory.

Variants and Related Words

• Infixation (n): The process or result of inserting an infix.
  • Infixation is rare in English but common in Austronesian languages.

Synonyms

• Insert (v): To put or fit something into something else.
• Implant (v): To set something firmly in something; often used for ideas or physical objects.
• Embed (v): To fix something firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass.

Related Phrases

• Infix notation: A mathematical notation where operators are written between their operands (e.g., 2 + 2). This is a technical compound term in computing and mathematics, distinct from the linguistic term.

Noun

1. an affix that is inserted inside the word

Verb

1. attach a morpheme into a stem word
2. put or introduce into something
   • insert a picture into the text