Word Building Secrets: Learn The Most Common English Roots

English Vocabulary: What is a root?

A root in the English language is the basic part of a word that carries the core meaning, often derived from Latin or Greek. Roots form the foundation of many English words, and by understanding them, you can easily grasp the meaning of new words or expand your vocabulary. Whether you’re learning words like “transmit” (from the root mit, meaning “to send”) or “biology” (from the root bio, meaning “life”), recognizing these common roots will help unlock the meaning behind countless terms. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the most common English roots.

English Vocabulary: What are word classes?

Word classes, also known as parts of speech, categorize words based on their function and role in sentences. Understanding word classes is crucial for constructing meaningful and grammatically correct sentences, as it helps in identifying how words interact and relate to each other within a sentence. Here’s a breakdown of the main word classes:

Nouns (n.): Words that represent people, places, things, or ideas (e.g., “dog,” “city,” “happiness”).
Example: This is a dog.

Pronouns (pron.): Words used in place of nouns to avoid repetition (e.g., “he,” “she,” “it,” “they”).
Example: She went to the store.

Verbs (v.): Words that express actions, occurrences, or states of being (e.g., “run,” “eat,” “exist”).
Example: I drink coffee every morning.

Adjectives (adj.): Words that describe or modify nouns or pronouns, often by indicating quality, quantity, or possession (e.g., “big,” “beautiful,” “my”).
Example: This is a beautiful car.

Adverbs (adv.): Words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, typically by indicating manner, place, time, frequency, degree, or certainty (e.g., “quickly,” “here,” “often”).
Example: He was walking slowly.

Prepositions (prep.): Words that show relationships between other words in a sentence, often indicating direction, location, or time (e.g., “in,” “on,” “at,” “between”).
Example: The cat is under the table.

Conjunctions (conj.): Words that connect words, phrases, or clauses (e.g., “and,” “but,” “or”).
Example: She wanted to go, but it was raining.

Interjections (interj.): Words or phrases that express strong emotions or reactions (e.g., “wow,” “oh,” “hey”).
Example: Wow, that’s amazing!

No Need to Memorize Words.

Memorizing individual words is a time-consuming and inefficient way to build vocabulary. Instead, by recognizing common prefixes, roots, and suffixes, you can decode and understand new words with ease, no matter the context. These building blocks reveal the meaning behind the words, making it possible to comprehend unfamiliar terms without rote memorization. Focus on learning these elements, and you’ll be able to confidently expand your vocabulary as you encounter new words. Let’s look at a few examples:

Example 1: Subterranean (adj.)

Many learners may find subterranean challenging, but by breaking it down, the meaning becomes clear:

Sub– (under, below)
terra (earth, land)
-ean (relating to)

Subterranean means something located or occurring beneath the earth’s surface, such as caves or tunnels.

Example 2: Intravenous (adj.)

At first glance, intravenous may seem complex, but let’s dissect it:

Intra- (within, inside)
ven (vein)
-ous (full of, possessing the qualities of)

Intravenous refers to something that is administered directly into a vein, like an IV injection.

Example 3: Circumference (n.)

Circumference may sound tricky, but it becomes simple once broken down:

Circum- (around, surrounding)
fer (carry, bear)
–ence (state, quality, action)

So, circumference literally means the action of carrying around something, and it refers to the distance around a circular object, like the edge of a circle.

Example 4: Manuscript (n.)

Let’s break down manuscript:

Manu- (hand)
script (write)

A manuscript is something written by hand or, historically, a text before it’s printed or published. Today, it usually refers to a draft of a book or article.

Complete List of Roots in English

Act

Root: Act
Meaning: The root “act” refers to the concept of doing or performing something. It is often associated with actions, deeds, or behaviors that involve movement or exertion of effort.
Origin: From Latin “actus,” meaning “a doing” or “a performance”

Action (n.): Something done; deed; act.
Actor (n.): A person who performs in plays, movies, or television shows.
Active (adj.): Engaged in action; characterized by energetic movement.
Proactive (adj.): Taking action by causing change and not only reacting to change when it occurs.
Activate (v.): To make something active or operational; to set in motion.
Activity (n.): The state or quality of being active; lively action; energetic pursuit.
Reaction (n.): Response to some action, influence, or stimulus.
Interact (v.): To act upon one another; to have an effect on each other.
Counteract (v.): To act in opposition to; to neutralize the effects of another action.
Enact (v.): To make into law; to establish by legal and authoritative action.
Transact (v.): To conduct or carry out business, a deal, or an exchange, typically involving goods, services, or financial transactions.
Transaction (n.): An instance of buying or selling something; a business deal.

To learn more about prefixes mentioned above, like “en-“, “trans-“, “re-“, “inter-“, and “counter-“, visit this page. Suffixes like “-ion”, “-ive”, and “-ity” are explained here.

Spect

Root: Spect
Meaning: The root “spect” relates to the act of seeing or observing. It is connected to words that involve vision, perception, or awareness of something through sight.
Origin: From Latin “spectare,” meaning “to look” or “to see”

Spectate (v.): To watch or observe an event, especially as a spectator.
Spectator (n.): A person who watches or observes an event, often as part of an audience.
Expect (v.): To anticipate or look forward to something happening; to consider something likely to occur.
Inspect (v.): To examine closely and critically, typically for the purpose of evaluation or investigation.
Respect (n., v.): (Noun) A feeling of admiration or deference toward someone or something based on their qualities, achievements, or status. (Verb) To admire or show deference to someone or something.
Retrospect (n., v.): (Noun) The action of looking back on or reviewing past events or situations. (Verb) To review or consider past events retrospectively.
Prospect (n., v.): (Noun) The possibility or likelihood of future success or advancement; a potential opportunity. (Verb) To search for or explore potential opportunities or prospects.

For a list of common English prefixes like “ex-“, “in-“, “re-“, and “pro-“, visit this page.

Vis

Root: Vis
Meaning: Similar to “spect,” the root “vis” also pertains to seeing or perceiving, but it may emphasize aspects related to vision or visual appearance.
Origin: Derived from the Latin word “videre”, meaning “to see”

Vision (n.): The faculty or state of being able to see; the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.
Revision (n.): The action of revising; the act of looking back on or reviewing previously studied material.
Visible (adj.): Able to be seen; perceptible by the eye.
Visit (v.): To go to see and spend time with (someone) socially.
Visitation (n.): An official visit, typically for the purpose of inspection, legal enforcement, or religious observance.
Visual (adj.): Relating to seeing or sight; of or relating to the eyes or vision; capable of being seen; visible.
Visualize (v.): To form a mental image of; imagine.
Visually (adv.): In a way that relates to sight or the sense of vision.
Vista (n.): A pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening.
Visage (n.): A person’s face, with reference to the form or proportions of the features.

Dict

Root: Dict
Meaning: The root “dict” is associated with words, speaking, or saying. It encompasses concepts related to verbal communication, language, or expression through speech.
Origin: From the Latin word “dicere”, meaning “to say” or “to speak”

Diction (n.): The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing.
Dictionary (n.): A reference book containing an alphabetical list of words with information about them, such as definitions, pronunciations, and etymologies.
Contradict (v.): To assert the opposite of a statement made by someone.
Contradiction (n.): A statement, assertion, or situation that is inconsistent or in conflict with another statement, assertion, or situation.
Predict (v.): To forecast or estimate a future event or outcome based on present indications or prior knowledge.
Prediction (n.): A statement about what will happen or might happen in the future, based on knowledge or experience.
Dictate (v.): To say or read aloud (words to be typed, written down, or recorded).
Dictator (n.): A ruler with total power over a country, typically one who has obtained control by force.
Dictation (n.): The action or process of speaking or reading something aloud for someone else to write down or transcribe.
Verdict (n.): A decision on an issue of fact in a civil or criminal case or an inquest.
Indict (v.): To formally accuse of or charge with a serious crime.
Addict (n.): A person who is addicted to a particular substance, typically an illegal drug.

Move, Mote

Root: Move / Mote
Meaning: Words derived from the root “movere” or “motivus” often pertain to movement, action, or causing something to happen. Whether it’s the literal act of physically moving something or the metaphorical concept of motivating or driving force, this root signifies action and impetus.
Origin: The root “movere” originates from Latin, meaning “to move” or “to set in motion.” It serves as the foundation for various English words related to motion, action, and influence.

Move (v.): To change position or location.
Motion (n.): The act or process of moving or changing position.
Motionless (adj.): Without movement or motion; stationary.
Motive (n.): A reason or incentive that prompts action.
Motivate (v.): To provide someone with a reason or incentive to do something.
Motivation (n.): The driving force behind someone’s actions, desires, or behavior.
Mobile (adj.): Capable of moving or being moved easily from one place to another; not fixed or stationary.
Mobility (n.): The ability to move or be moved freely and easily, typically referring to physical movement, but can also denote flexibility or adaptability in a broader sense.
Automotive (adj.): Relating to motor vehicles.
Automobile (n.): A self-propelled vehicle used for transportation on roads, typically with four wheels, powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor. Prefix “auto-” means “by itself”, or “on its own”. Put simply, automobile is something that moves itself.
Locomotive (n.): A powered rail vehicle used for pulling trains, typically powered by a steam engine, diesel engine, or electric motor.
Automation (n.): The use of technology and machinery to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, often involving the automatic control of processes and systems.

Struct

Root: Struct
Meaning: The root “struct” involves the idea of building or arranging something. It encompasses concepts related to construction, formation, or organization of objects or systems.
Origin: From Latin “structus”, meaning “built” or “arranged”.

Construct (v.): To build or assemble something, typically from various parts.
Construction (n.): The process or act of building or making something.
Reconstruction (n.): The process of rebuilding or restoring something, especially after it has been damaged or destroyed.
Destruct (v.): To destroy or demolish something.
Destruction (n.): The act or process of causing great damage or harm, often resulting in the collapse or disintegration of something.
Instruct (v.): To teach or provide information to someone in a formal or structured manner.
Instruction (n.): Direction or guidance given for a specific purpose, often in a formal setting such as education or training.
Instructor (n.): A person who teaches or provides instruction, often in a formal or professional capacity.
Infrastructure (n.): The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society, such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
Structural (adj.): Relating to the arrangement or organization of parts within a whole, particularly in relation to stability or strength.

Vert

Root: Vert
Meaning: The root “vert” relates to the act of turning or changing direction. It is connected to words that involve rotation, revolution, or alteration in position or orientation.
Origin: From the Latin word “vertere”, which means “to turn”.

Convert (v.): To change or transform something into a different form or character.
Converse (v.): To engage in conversation or dialogue with someone; to communicate verbally with others, typically in an informal manner.
Invert (v.): To turn upside down or reverse the position of something.
Conversation (n.): A verbal exchange or interaction between two or more people, typically involving the exchange of thoughts, ideas, feelings, or information.
Revert (v.): To return to a previous state or condition.
Divert (v.): To cause something to change course or turn aside from its original direction.
Introvert (n.): A person who tends to be more inward-focused or reserved in social situations.
Introverted (adj.): Refers to a personality trait characterized by inward-focused tendencies, introspection, and a preference for solitary activities or small group interactions.
Extrovert (n.): A person who tends to be more outgoing and sociable in social situations.
Extroverted (adj.): Refers to a personality trait characterized by outward-focused tendencies, sociability, and a preference for engaging in social activities and interactions with others.
Subvert (v.): To undermine or destabilize something, often through secretive or subversive means.
Advert (v.): To turn attention to or focus on something, typically through advertising or promotion.
Avert (v.): To prevent or avoid something undesirable from happening.

Fic

Root: Fac, Fic, Fect
Meaning: The root “fac,” “fic,” and “fect” involve the concept of making, doing, or causing something.
Origin: From Latin *facere*, meaning “to make” or “to do.”

Efficient (adj.): Performing in the best possible manner with minimal waste of effort.
Efficiency (n.): The quality of being efficient, achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort.
Sufficient (adj.): Adequate in quantity or quality; enough.
Sufficiency (n.): The condition of being sufficient; adequacy.
Proficient (adj.): Competent or skilled in doing or using something.
Proficiency (n.): A high degree of skill or competence.
Perfect (adj.): Free from flaws or defects; ideal or complete.
Perfection (n.): The condition of being perfect or complete in all aspects.
Imperfect (adj.): Not perfect; having defects or flaws.
Infect (v.): To contaminate with disease or harmful agents.
Infection (n.): The process or state of being infected by harmful agents like bacteria or viruses.
Effect (n.): A change brought about by an action or event.
Effective (adj.): Successful in producing a desired result.
Effectively (adv.): In a way that produces the intended or expected result.
Confection (n.): The act of preparing or mixing ingredients, often for sweets or medicinal compounds.
Confectionery (n.): Sweets, candies, or items made with sugar.

Scribe

Root: Scribe
Meaning: The root “scribe” pertains to writing or recording information. It encompasses concepts related to writing, transcription, or documentation.
Origin: From Latin “scribere”, meaning “to write”.

Describe (v.): To give an account or representation of something in words.
Prescribe (v.): To issue a medical prescription or directive for treatment, often in writing.
Prescription (n.): A written directive from a medical practitioner that authorizes a patient to receive a specific medication or treatment.
Inscription (n.): Words that are written or engraved on a surface, such as a monument or a coin.
Scribe (n.): A person who writes or copies documents by hand.
Manuscript (n.): A handwritten or typed document, especially one that has not yet been published. “Manu” means “hand” in Latin.
Transcribe (v.): To make a written or typed copy of something, especially dictated or recorded material.
Scripture (n.): Sacred or religious writings, often referring to the texts of various religious traditions.
Subscription (n.): A written agreement to receive or pay for a service or product regularly, typically for a set period.
Conscription (n.): The compulsory enlistment of people into a national service, such as the military, often documented in writing.
Proscribe (v.): To forbid or prohibit something by official decree, often stated in writing.

Graph

Root: Graph
Meaning: “Graph” indicates concepts related to visual representation, communication, or recording, whether through writing, drawing, or other means.
Origin: It comes from the Greek word “graphos”, meaning “to write” or “to draw”.

Telegraph (n.): A system for transmitting messages over long distances by sending coded signals.
Photograph (n.): An image made by exposing light-sensitive film or digital sensor to light.
Geography (n.): The study of the Earth’s physical features and the distribution of life on Earth.
Autograph (n.): A person’s signature, especially when written by that person themselves.
Biography (n.): An account of someone’s life written by someone else.
Holograph (n.): A document or signature that is entirely written by the person whose signature it is.
Monograph (n.): A detailed written study or account of a single specialized subject.
Diagram (n.): A simplified drawing showing the appearance, structure, or workings of something.
Cartography (n.): The art and science of creating maps.
Seismograph (n.): An instrument for measuring and recording the intensity and duration of seismic waves.

Press

Root: Press
Meaning: The root “press” involves the idea of applying pressure or force onto something, as well as the act of printing or publishing.
Origin: From Latin “pressare”, meaning “to press”.

Express (v.): To convey or communicate thoughts or feelings in words or actions.
Repress (v.): To hold back or suppress something, such as emotions or actions.
Impress (v.): To force or stamp something into a surface; to make a strong impact.
Compress (v.): To press together; to reduce in size or volume by applying pressure.
Propress (v.): To apply pressure or force to something, often in a progressive manner.
Supress (v.): To prevent something from being seen or expressed; to restrain.
Press (n.): A group of journalists or news organizations that gather and report news; also refers to the machinery used in printing.
Expression (n.): The act of conveying thoughts or feelings through words, gestures, or other forms.
Impression (n.): The effect or influence produced by someone or something; also refers to a printed mark or image.
Repression (n.): The act of suppressing or holding back, often related to emotions or behaviors.
Compression (n.): The act of pressing or squeezing something into a smaller space.

Gress

Root: Gress
Meaning: Words with this root typically relate to movement, progress, or steps, stemming from the Latin word “gradus”, meaning “step” or “walk”.
Origin: Derived from the Latin word “gradus,” meaning “step” or “walk”.

Progress (v., n.): To move forward or advance, typically towards a goal or improvement; The process of moving forward or advancing, often indicating development or improvement.
Progressive (adj.): Favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform.
Progression (n.): The act or process of moving forward or advancing, typically in a gradual or systematic manner, often indicating development or improvement.
Regress (v.): To move backward, return to a previous state, or decline.
Regressive (adj.): Characterized by a return to a former or less developed state, backward.
Regression (n.): The act or process of reverting to an earlier or less advanced state, often associated with decline or deterioration.
Digress (v.): To depart from the main subject or topic temporarily in speech or writing.
Digressive (adj.): Tending to depart from the main subject or topic, rambling.
Egress (v., n.): To leave or exit from a place or structure; The action of leaving or exiting from a place or structure.
Ingress (v., n.): To enter or go into a place or space; The action of entering or going into something, typically a building or space.
Congress (n.): A formal meeting or assembly of representatives and politicians to discuss and enact laws, and take people’s freedoms away. 😶‍🌫️
Transgress (v.): To violate a law, command, or moral code; to exceed or overstep boundaries.
Transgression (n.): The act of violating a law, command, moral code, or boundary; an infringement or breach of rules or standards.

Vent

Root: Vent
Meaning: As a root, “vent” suggests a sense of outlet or passage, often associated with the release or escape of substances, gases, or air. It conveys the concept of openness or flow, indicating the presence of a channel through which something can exit or be emitted. This root is foundational in forming words related to various forms of ventilation, release, emergence, or event occurrence.
Origin: Derived from the Latin word “ventus”, meaning “wind” or “breath”.

Ventilation (n.): The process of providing fresh air to an enclosed space, typically through the use of vents or openings.
Ventilator (n.): A mechanical device used to provide artificial ventilation or airflow to a person who is unable to breathe adequately on their own, often used in medical settings.
Event (n.): An occurrence or happening, often of significance, that happens at a particular time and place.
Prevent (v.): To stop something from happening or to keep it from occurring, often by taking action beforehand.
Invent (v.): To create or produce something new, especially a device or process, through ingenuity or creativity.
Inventive (adj.): Characterized by creativity or the ability to produce new and original ideas or solutions.
Invention (n.): The act or process of creating something new, such as a device, process, or method, often resulting from ingenuity or imaginative thinking.
Convent (n.): A community of individuals, typically nuns, living together under religious vows, often within a monastery or convent.
Venture (n.): A risky or daring undertaking, typically involving uncertainty or the possibility of loss, but with potential for gain or success.
Venture (v.): To embark on or undertake a risky or daring journey or business endeavor.
Advent (n.): The arrival or coming of a significant event or person, often with connotations of anticipation or expectation.
Preventive (adj.): Intended to stop something from happening or to keep it from occurring; serving to prevent.

Spire

Root: spire
Meaning: As a root, spire is derived from the Latin word spirare, meaning “to breathe.” It conveys the concept of breath or life and is often associated with actions related to inspiration, respiration, or the act of breathing in a metaphorical sense (such as motivation or spirit). The root spire forms the foundation of words that deal with physical breathing, as well as abstract ideas like inspiration, motivation, or the cessation of life (expiration).
Origin: Derived from the Latin word spirare, meaning “to breathe.”

Inspire (v.): To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially something creative or meaningful. The word suggests metaphorically breathing life into someone’s ideas or emotions.
Inspiration (n.): The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something creative, often described as breathing in new ideas or motivation.
Respire (v.): To breathe, particularly in the context of the biological process of respiration, involving the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide.
Respiration (n.): The process of breathing, especially in the biological sense of taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide.
Aspire (v.): To have an ambitious goal or aim, often with a sense of reaching for something higher or better, as if breathing in a desire to achieve.
Expire (v.): To come to an end, especially in terms of life or time; literally, to “breathe out” one’s last breath.
Perspire (v.): To sweat, particularly as a way of releasing heat or toxins from the body; to exude moisture from the pores.
Conspire (v.): To secretly plan together with others to perform a wrongful act; literally, to “breathe together” in plotting or scheming.
Transpire (v.): To occur or happen, especially in a way that becomes known over time; originally meaning the process by which water or vapor is breathed out through pores or small openings.

Fer

Root: Fer
Meaning: The root “fer” relates to the act of carrying, bearing, or bringing. It encompasses concepts related to transfer, change, and the movement of objects or ideas.
Origin: From Latin “ferre,” meaning “to carry” or “to bear.”

Ferry (n.): A boat or ship that carries people or goods across a body of water, usually as part of a regular service.
Confer (v.): To grant or bestow something, typically in a formal or official manner.
Conference (n.): A formal meeting for discussion or exchange of ideas.
Conferential (adj.): Pertaining to a conference or discussion.
Conferral (n.): The act of granting or bestowing an honor, degree, or title.
Differ (v.): To be unlike or distinct from something else.
Difference (n.): A point or way in which things are not the same.
Different (adj.): Not the same as another or each other.
Differential (adj.): Showing or depending on a difference.
Differentiation (n.): The process of distinguishing one thing from another.
Differentiated (adj.): Marked by a distinction or variation.
Suffer (v.): To experience or endure pain, distress, or hardship.
Suffering (n.): The state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship.
Sufferer (n.): A person who experiences or endures pain, distress, or hardship.
Sufferable (adj.): Capable of being endured or tolerated.
Transfer (v.): To move from one place, person, or situation to another.
Transference (n.): The act or process of moving something or someone from one place to another.
Transferable (adj.): Capable of being moved or shifted to another place.

Duc, Duct

Root: Duc, Duct
Meaning: In various words, this root implies concepts of leading, guiding, bringing forth, or causing to occur. It’s versatile, appearing in words across different domains, from leadership and direction to inference and geological processes.
Origin: From the Latin verb “ducere”, meaning “to lead” or “to bring”.

Product (n.): Something that is produced as a result of a process or action.
Produce (n.): Agricultural products or items that have been grown or harvested, typically for consumption or sale.
Produce (v.): To create, manufacture, or generate something, typically in a tangible form. It can refer to the act of bringing forth goods, crops, or products through farming, manufacturing, or other processes.
Deduce (v.): To derive or conclude information by reasoning.
Educate (v.): To provide knowledge or instruction to someone.
Induce (v.): To bring about or initiate something.
Conduct (v.): To manage or direct the performance of an activity or process.
Conduct (n.): The manner in which a person behaves, especially in a particular context or situation. It can also denote the way an organization or group manages or carries out its affairs. Many companies have a “code of conduct” outlining expected behavior and ethical standards for employees.
Conductive (adj.): Having the property of facilitating the flow of electricity or heat.
Conductor (n.): A person who leads or directs an orchestra or choir.
Abduction (n.): The act of forcibly taking someone away against their will.
Seduce (v.): To entice, attract, or persuade someone to engage in sexual activity or to do something they might otherwise resist or find undesirable, often through charm, flattery, or manipulation.
Seduction (n.): The act of enticing someone into sexual activity or a relationship.
Deductive (adj.): Characterized by reasoning from general principles to specific instances.
Inductive (adj.): Involving reasoning from specific instances to general principles.

Cede

Root: Cede
Meaning: Words containing this root often involve the act of yielding, surrendering, or giving up something, whether it be territory, authority, or control.
Origin: From the Latin word “cedere,” meaning “to go” or “to yield”.

Concede (v.): To admit that something is true or valid after first denying or resisting it; to yield or surrender. The term “concede” can be understood as a combination of “co-” meaning “with” or “jointly” and “cedere” meaning “to go/come.” In this sense, it implies agreeing with someone else’s point or yielding to their argument rather than coming together physically.
Recede (v.): To move back or away from a previous position or level; to retreat or withdraw.
Proceed (v.): To continue or move forward, especially with a plan or course of action; to advance.
Intercede (v.): To intervene or mediate on behalf of someone in a dispute or conflict; to act as an intermediary.
Exceed (v.): To go beyond the limits or bounds of something; to surpass or outstrip.
Precede (v.): To come before something in time, order, or position.
Secede (v.): To withdraw formally from membership in a political or religious organization or from a federation.
Accede (v.): To agree to a request or demand; to yield to an opinion or request.
Concede (v.): To grant or yield something to someone; to surrender or relinquish.
Incede (v.): To give up or yield territory or rights to another party.
Recede (v.): To retreat or withdraw from a position.
Proceed (v.): To continue or advance after a pause or interruption.

Pose, Pone

Root: Pose, Pone
Meaning: This root relates to placing, positioning, or putting something in a certain way. It often appears in words that convey the act of placing, setting, or establishing something.
Origin: Derived from the Latin word “ponere”, meaning “to place” or “to put”.

Compose (v.): To create or put together a work of art, music, or writing; to arrange in a specific form or order.
Composition (n.): The act of putting together parts or elements to form a whole; the arrangement of elements in a work of art, music, or writing.
Depose (v.): To remove someone from a position of power or authority; to testify or give evidence under oath.
Expose (v.): To make something visible or uncover something that was hidden; to reveal.
Impose (v.): To force something upon someone, such as a burden or rule; to establish or apply something as a requirement.
Propose (v.): To suggest or put forward an idea or plan for consideration.
Repose (v.): To rest or lie in a particular place or position; to be situated.
Oppose (v.): To place something against or in contrast to something else; to resist or confront.
Dispose (v.): To arrange or set something in a particular order or position; to get rid of something.
Impose (n.): The act of placing a burden or requirement on someone; a formal order or command.

Port

Root: Port
Meaning: Words with the root “port” often relate to carrying, bearing, or transporting something from one place to another. This can include physical transportation of goods or people, as well as metaphorical concepts such as conveying or transferring information.
Origin: From Latin “portare,” meaning “to carry” or “to bring”.

Transport (v., n.): To carry or move (goods or people) from one place to another; the action or process of transporting goods or people.
Portable (adj.): Able to be easily carried or moved, especially because of being small and light.
Export (v., n.): To send goods or services to another country for sale or trade; the act of exporting goods or services.
Import (v., n.): To bring goods or services into a country from abroad for sale or trade; the act of importing goods or services.
Deport (v.): To expel (a foreigner) from a country, typically for illegal or criminal behavior.
Portal (n.): A doorway, gate, or other entrance, especially a large and elaborate one.
Support (v., n.): To bear all or part of the weight of; to hold up or serve as a foundation for something; assistance, especially financial, provided to a person or organization.
Comport (v.): To behave or conduct oneself in a particular manner, especially in keeping with a particular status or way of life.

Cept

Root: Cept
Meaning: Words with the root “cept” are related to the concepts of taking, receiving, or capturing. This root often appears in verbs and adjectives that involve the notion of grasping, understanding, or accepting something.
Origin: From Latin “capere”, meaning “to take” or “to seize”.

Accept (v.): To receive something willingly.
Acceptable (adj.): Able to be received or tolerated.
Acceptance (n.): The act of receiving something willingly.
Receive (v.): To get or be given something.
Reception (n.): The act of receiving something sent, given, or inflicted.
Receptive (adj.): Willing to receive or accept new ideas or suggestions.
Except (v., prep.): To exclude or leave out.
Exception (n.): An instance or case where a rule or generalization does not apply.
Intercept (v.): To stop or catch something on its way from one place to another.
Interception (n.): The act of stopping or catching something in transit.
Deceive (v.): To mislead or trick someone by making them believe something that is not true.
Deceptive (adj.): Misleading or intended to deceive.
Deception (n.): The act of deceiving or misleading someone.
Perceive (v.): To become aware of or understand something through the senses.
Perception (n.): The way one takes in or understands something through the senses.
Perceptive (adj.): Having or showing insight and understanding.
Conceive (v.): To form a concept, idea, or plan in the mind.
Concept (n.): An idea or principle that is conceived in the mind.
Conceptual (adj.): Related to or based on concepts or ideas.
Conception (n.): The act of taking or forming an idea; also refers to the beginning of pregnancy.

Sist

Root: Sist
Meaning: Words with the root “sist” are related to the concepts of standing, remaining, or staying in a particular place or state. This root often appears in verbs that involve the notion of persistence, support, or resistance.
Origin: From Latin “sistere”, meaning “to stand” or “to stay”.

Persist (v.): To continue steadfastly despite difficulties or obstacles.
Persistence (n.): The quality of continuing steadfastly despite difficulties.
Persistent (adj.): Continuing steadfastly despite difficulties.
Insist (v.): To demand something forcefully or assert something firmly.
Consist (v.): To be composed or made up of certain elements.
Assist (v.): To help or support someone in achieving something.
Assistance (n.): The act of helping or supporting someone.
Resist (v.): To withstand or oppose something.
Subsist (v.): To maintain or continue to exist, often in a minimal or basic way.
Desist (v.): To stop doing something or cease an action.
Exist (v.): To have life or reality; to be present.
Preexist (v.): To exist before something else.

Ject

Root: Ject
Meaning: Words containing the root “ject” often pertain to throwing, casting, or hurling something forward. This can involve physical actions like throwing an object, as well as more abstract concepts like projecting ideas or concepts forward.
Origin: From Latin “iacere”, meaning “to throw” or “to cast”.

Reject (v.): To dismiss or refuse to accept something as inadequate, unacceptable, or unsatisfactory.
Project (v., n.): To plan, calculate, or estimate something for a future time or condition; an individual or collaborative endeavor with a specific goal or purpose.
Projectile (n.): An object, such as a bullet or missile, that is thrown or projected forward, typically with great force.
Eject (v.): To force or throw out (something) forcefully and suddenly, typically in a violent or abrupt manner.
Interject (v.): To interrupt a conversation or discussion with a comment, remark, or statement.
Object (v., n.): To express disapproval or opposition; a thing that can be seen or touched.
Subject (v., n.): To bring under control or domination; a person or thing that is being discussed or studied.
Inject (v.): To introduce a substance, often a liquid, into something else.
Deject (v.): To make someone feel sad or depressed.
Trajectory (n.): The path that an object takes as it moves through space.

Sect

Root: Sect
Meaning: Words with the root “sect” often relate to cutting or division. This can involve physical actions like cutting something apart or metaphorical concepts like dividing ideas or groups.
Origin: From Latin “secare”, meaning “to cut”.

Insect (n.): A small insect or arthropod, often characterized by three body segments and six legs; a group of similar organisms.
Resect (v.): To cut or remove a portion of tissue or an organ, typically in a medical context.
Subsect (n.): A subgroup within a larger group, especially in the context of religion or philosophy.
Section (n.): A distinct part or subdivision of something.
Sectarian (adj.): Relating to a sect or sects; often used to describe division or conflict between groups.
Dissect (v.): To cut apart for the purpose of scientific examination; to analyze in detail.
Exsect (n.): A group or division formed by splitting off from a larger group.

Cite

Root: Cite
Meaning: Words with the root “cie-” are related to the concepts of stirring up, moving, or calling forth. This root often appears in verbs and nouns that involve provoking, exciting, or referencing something.
Origin: From Latin “ciere,” meaning “to stir up” or “to move.”

Incite (v.): To provoke or stir up action.
Inciting (adj.): Provoking or stimulating action or emotion.
Incitement (n.): The action of provoking or encouraging someone to do something, often something illegal or violent.
Cite (v.): To quote or refer to a source or authority.
Citation (n.): The act of mentioning or referring to a source or authority.
Excite (v.): To stimulate or arouse.
Exciting (adj.): Causing excitement or stimulation.
Excited (adj.): Feeling or showing enthusiasm, interest, or arousal.
Excitement (n.): The state of being stirred up or aroused.

Part

Root: Part
Meaning: The word “part” as a root serves as a fundamental building block for words that involve separation, division, or leaving. This root encompasses physical actions such as parting ways or dividing something into distinct sections, as well as abstract concepts like partiality or favoring one side over another. It embodies the notion of breaking apart or separating into distinct elements.
Origin: From Latin “partire”, meaning “to divide” or “to share.”

Depart (v.): To leave or go away from a place.
Departure (n.): The act of leaving or setting out from a place.
Apart (adv.): Separately or at a distance from something else.
Partition (n.): A structure that divides a space into separate areas.
Parting (n.): The action of leaving or separating from someone.
Partial (adj.): Favoring one side or faction more than another; biased.
Apartment (n.): A set of rooms for living in, typically on one floor of a building.
Department (n.): A division of a large organization or institution, such as a government or university.
Compartment (n.): A separate division within a larger structure, like a container or vehicle, for organized storage.

Manu

Root: Manu
Meaning: The root “manu-“ relates to concepts involving the hand or manual actions. It is fundamental to words that involve physical handling, working by hand, or creating something manually. This root covers both tangible actions, such as operating machinery or writing by hand, and abstract ideas like skillful operation or craftsmanship. It embodies the idea of tasks performed using the hands or manual effort.
Origin: From Latin “manus”, meaning “hand”
NB: Learn more about the prefix “auto-”

Manual (adj.): Pertaining to or done with the hands.
Manual (n.): A book or guide with instructions.
Manuscript (n.): A handwritten or typed document.
Manufacture (v.): To make or produce something, often on a large scale.
Manufacture (n.): The process of making goods, typically in factories.
Manicure (n.): A cosmetic treatment for hands and nails.
Manicure (v.): To treat hands and nails cosmetically.

Cog

Root: Cog
Meaning: As a root, “cog” comes from the Latin word cognoscere, meaning “to know” or “to learn.” It is foundational to words related to knowledge, awareness, or recognition. The root conveys the idea of understanding, recognizing, or becoming familiar with something.
Origin: Derived from the Latin word cognoscere, meaning “to know” or “to learn.”

Recognize (v.): To identify someone or something from a previous encounter or knowledge; to become aware of the existence or validity of something.
Cognize (v.): To perceive or recognize; to become aware of something through sensory input or reasoning.
Incognito (adj. or adv.): Describes someone who is in disguise or under an assumed identity, so as not to be recognized.
Recognition (n.): The act of identifying or acknowledging something; formal acknowledgment of the validity or existence of something or someone.
Precognition (n.): Knowledge of an event before it happens, typically used in a paranormal context to describe foreknowledge or foresight.
Cognitive (adj.): Related to mental processes such as thinking, reasoning, remembering, and understanding.
Cognition (n.): The mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses.
Cognizant (adj.): Having knowledge or being aware of something; being informed about an event or situation.
Recognizable (adj.): Easily identified or recognized, especially by appearance or characteristics.
Recognizance (n.): A formal acknowledgment or legal bond to perform an obligation, typically used in legal contexts to refer to a pledge to appear in court.

Note: The root “cog” is connected to the term “cog” as in a gear, which originates from the Old French coge and ultimately derives from the Latin cog, meaning “to drive” or “to push.” This etymology relates directly to the function of cogs in machinery, where they drive motion through their interlocking teeth. While this usage pertains to mechanical function, the root “cog” also relates to knowledge, derived from the Latin cognoscere, which means “to know.” Although these meanings are distinct, a metaphorical link exists: just as cogs in a machine work together to create movement, cognitive processes drive individuals to advance their understanding and knowledge. Thus, both uses of “cog” highlight the idea of functionality, whether in a mechanical or cognitive context.

List of Roots (Alphabetical)

Act
Cede
Cept
Cite
Cog
Dict
Duc
Duct
Fer
Fic
Graph
Gress
Ject

Manu
Move
Motive
Part
Port
Pose
Pone
Press
Scribe
Sect
Sist

Spect
Spire
Struct
Vent
Vert
Vis

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