affix

Etymology

From Latin affixus, perfect passive participle of affigere (from ad- + figere).

Pronunciation

• (noun) IPA^(key): /ˈæ.fɪks/
• (verb) IPA^(key): /ə.ˈfɪks/
• Rhymes: -ɪks

Noun

affix (plural affixes)

Affixes. Italo-Greek Vase in the Campana Collection (Louvres Museum)

1. That which is affixed; an appendage.
2. (linguistic morphology) A bound morpheme added to the word’s stem's end.
3. (linguistic morphology) A bound morpheme added to a word’s stem; the term comprises prefixes, suffixes, infixes, circumfixes, and suprafixes.
4. (mathematics) The complex number associated with the point in the Gauss plane with coordinates .
5. (decorative art) Any small feature, as a figure, a flower, or the like, added for ornament to a vessel or other utensil, to an architectural feature.

Verb

affix (third-person singular simple present affixes, present participle affixing, simple past and past participle affixed)

1. To attach.
   • Ray

     Should they [caterpillars] affix them to the leaves of a plant improper for their food […]

   to affix a stigma to a person; to affix ridicule or blame to somebody

2. To subjoin, annex, or add at the close or end; to append to.

   to affix a syllable to a word; to affix a seal to an instrument; to affix one's name to a writing

3. To fix or fasten figuratively; with on or upon.

   eyes affixed upon the ground

   (Can we find and add a quotation of Spenser to this entry?)

Pronunciation

• Audio

  (file)

Noun

affix n (plural affixen, diminutive affixje n)

1. Affix (linguistics and mathematics)

Noun

affix n

1. an affix