Definition

1. Noun (plural form of 'word'):
   • Units of language: The smallest elements of speech or writing that carry meaning, used to form sentences and express ideas, thoughts, or information.
   • Spoken or written language: Language expressed through speech or text.
   • The text of a song: The lyrical component of a musical composition, as opposed to the music itself.
   • A verbal exchange or argument: An angry dispute or quarrel involving spoken language.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to language units or expressions:
  • She carefully chose her words before speaking to the press.
  • The poet is known for his beautiful and evocative words.
• Referring to spoken language or speech:
  • I listened intently to his words of advice.
  • Her words were clear and easy to understand.
• Referring to song lyrics:
  • He wrote the music, but she wrote the words.
  • I love the words to this song.
• Referring to an argument:
  • They had words after the meeting and haven't spoken since.

Advanced Usage

• "To have words (with someone)": To have an argument or a serious, often angry, discussion with someone.
  • The manager had words with the employee about his persistent lateness.
• "To put something into words": To express a thought or feeling verbally or in writing.
  • It's a complex emotion that is difficult to put into words.
• "Words fail me": An expression used when one is so surprised, shocked, or emotional that one cannot think of anything to say.
  • When I saw the devastation, words failed me.

Variants and Related Words

• Word (n): The singular form; a single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing.
• Wording (n): The choice and arrangement of words and phrases in speech or writing.
  • The wording of the contract is very precise.
• Wordless (adj): Not using words; silent.
  • They shared a wordless understanding.

Synonyms

• Language: The system of communication using words.
• Vocabulary: The body of words used in a particular language or by a particular person.
• Lyrics: The words of a song.
• Verbal exchange: A conversation or argument.

Related Phrases

• In other words: Used to introduce a rephrasing or clarification of what has just been said.
  • He was frugal, or in other words, he hated spending money.
• A man/woman of few words: A person who speaks very little.
  • My grandfather was a man of few words.
• Words to that effect: Used to indicate that the quotation or description is not exact but captures the general meaning.
  • She said she was resigning, or words to that effect.

Idioms

• Famous last words: Said to express skepticism that a statement or promise will prove to be true.
  • "I'll never make that mistake again." "Famous last words."
• Take the words right out of someone's mouth: To say exactly what someone else was about to say.
  • You took the words right out of my mouth; I was thinking the same thing.
• Mark my words: Listen to and remember what I am saying, because it will happen.
  • Mark my words, he will regret this decision.

Noun

1. words making up the dialogue of a play
   • the actor forgot his speech
2. an angry dispute
   • they had a quarrel
   • they had words
3. language that is spoken or written
   • he has a gift for words
   • she put her thoughts into words
4. the text of a popular song or musical-comedy number
   • his compositions always started with the lyrics
   • he wrote both words and music
   • the song uses colloquial language
5. the words that are spoken
   • I listened to his words very closely