WORDS & WORD PARTS

Study Words and Word Parts

Start with your week’s words, then study chapter vocabulary and explore more word parts.

Each word includes its root history and related words. Use the old meaning as a clue, then check the word’s meaning in the chapter. Prefix and suffix examples share an affix; their roots may differ.

For only the selected chapter’s words, choose Chapter vocabulary under Show. Search also includes extra dictionary entries for word parts.

WORDS RELATED TO KEY IDEA 1

Economic forces drive history

Gist

People make choices to get land, money, and the things they need. Those choices can change other people’s lives.

Check your understanding

Academic definition

Economic interests shape historical change when people use power to control resources, organize labor, and distribute wealth. Explain the decisions connecting an economic goal to its consequences.

economic interests: What someone hopes to gain or protect through land, work, trade, or money.
Root & relatives
Root & origineco / nom — household / management Economic traces back to Greek oikos, meaning household, and nomos, connected with managing or arranging. Economy first concerned managing a household.
Same-root relativeseconomy · economic · economics · economical · economist
Word history: Etymonline
resources: Useful things people need or control, such as land, water, tools, and money.
Root & relatives
Root & originsurg — rise Resource came through French from a word meaning to rise again or recover, ultimately from Latin resurgere. Its sense developed toward a means of help or supply.
Same-root relativesresource · resourceful · resourcefulness · resurgence
Word history: Etymonline
labor: People’s work.
Root & relatives
Root & originlabor — work Labor comes from Latin labor, meaning work or effort.
Same-root relativeslaborer · laborious · collaborate · collaboration · elaborate
Word history: Etymonline

Check your understanding

Elaboration

Tobacco profits encouraged colonists to seek more farmland and workers. Landowners and lawmakers made choices about whose land and labor they could control. The goal of earning money helps explain those choices, but it does not make conquest or unequal laws inevitable.

Check your understanding

Who gained land, labor, or wealth, and whose work or loss made that gain possible?

profit (noun)

Names an economic goal. Ask who expected to gain money and how that goal shaped a decision.

exploitation (noun)

Connects labor to unequal power. Ask who did the work, who received the gains, and what choices workers had.

dispossession (noun)

Connects wealth to land. Ask how one group’s loss of land helped another group gain resources or control.

Use these words

Use the words in an argument

The chance of tobacco profit increased demand for land and labor. Colonial dispossession took Native land, while the exploitation of bound workers directed the gains from their work toward landowners.

YPT 33 · YPT 47 · YPT 53

Build your own connection

Use people, actions, and evidence from your reading. The brackets tell you what belongs in each place.

Because [person or group] wanted [resource or economic gain], they [specific action]. This benefited [group] while [group] paid the cost.

WORDS RELATED TO KEY IDEA 2

Race is socially constructed

Gist

People made the rules about race. Those rules decide who gets treated as belonging and who gets treated unfairly. People can change the rules.

Check your understanding

Academic definition

Racial categories and hierarchies are created and enforced through social beliefs, laws, and institutions. Their meanings change across time and place, while their effects on rights and opportunities are real.

racial categories: Groups people create using ideas about ancestry and physical differences.
Root & relatives
Root & originrace — group or lineage For word study, focus on racial. Race in this course came through French race, referring to lineage or a group. Its earlier origin is uncertain; it is unrelated to race meaning a running contest.
Same-root relatives of racialracial · racism · racist · multiracial · racialize
Word history: Etymonline
hierarchies: Rankings that give some groups more power or status than others.
Root & relatives
Root & originhier / arch — sacred / rule Hierarchy comes from Greek hieros, meaning sacred, and arkhein, meaning to rule. It first described ranks in a religious order, then other systems of ranking.
Same-root relativeshierarchy · hierarchical · hierarch
Word history: Etymonline
institutions: Organizations and established rules, such as courts, schools, and governments.
Root & relatives
Root & originstat / stit — set up or stand Institution comes from Latin instituere, meaning to establish or arrange, built on statuere, to set up, related to stare, to stand.
Same-root relativesinstitute · institution · institutional · institutionalize
Word history: Etymonline

Check your understanding

Elaboration

In colonial Virginia, courts and lawmakers attached different penalties and rights to racial categories. John Punch received lifetime servitude after an escape, while two white servants received added years. The court helped turn a racial label into a different legal future. A rule made by people can still cause lasting harm.

Check your understanding

Who defined a racial category, how did laws or practices enforce it, and who gained or lost rights?

race (noun)

Names the category being created and used. Ask which traits people treated as meaningful and why.

whiteness (noun)

Helps track changing boundaries of belonging. Ask who was recognized as white and what status or advantages followed.

segregation (noun)

Shows how a category becomes an everyday rule. Ask how racial separation affected housing, schools, work, or public life.

Use these words

Use the words in an argument

Race became a way to distribute rights and opportunities. Being accepted within whiteness could bring advantages denied to other groups. Later, housing segregation helped turn racial boundaries into unequal access to neighborhoods.

YPT 51 · YPT 119 · YPT 260

Build your own connection

Use people, actions, and evidence from your reading. The brackets tell you what belongs in each place.

By treating [people] as a separate racial group, [institution or decision-maker] used [rule or practice] to give or deny access to [right or opportunity].

WORDS RELATED TO KEY IDEA 3

Ideas are weapons

Gist

A story or belief can help people get others to accept unfair treatment—or work together to change it.

Check your understanding

Academic definition

Ideas influence struggles over power by legitimizing domination, defining belonging, or mobilizing resistance. To explain the connection, identify the idea, who uses it, and the action it helps justify or organize.

legitimizing: Making something seem right or acceptable.
Root & relatives
Root & originleg — law Legitimize is built from legitimate, from Latin legitimus, lawful, related to lex, with the form legis, meaning law.
Same-root relativeslegitimate · legitimize · legitimacy · legitimization
Word history: Etymonline
domination: Power over other people that limits their choices.
Root & relatives
Root & origindomin — master or rule Domin comes from Latin dominus, meaning master or lord, and dominari, meaning to rule.
Same-root relativesdominate · dominant · dominance · dominion
Word history: Etymonline
mobilizing resistance: Getting people ready to work together against something they oppose.
Root & relatives
Root & originmobil — movable Mobilize is built from Latin mobilis, meaning movable, related to movere, to move.
Same-root relativesmobile · mobility · mobilize · mobilization · immobile
Word history: Etymonline

Check your understanding

Elaboration

English settlers claimed that Native people did not deserve their land because they did not work hard. Native farming challenged that story, but the claim still supplied settlers with an excuse for seizure. Ideas can also support resistance when people turn a shared demand for equality into organized action.

Check your understanding

What belief or story justified power, and what idea helped people challenge it?

ideology (noun)

Connects a single claim to a larger set of beliefs about society and power. Ask what the speaker assumes is normal or right.

justification (noun)

Names the argument used to defend an action. Ask what the argument makes seem necessary, acceptable, or deserved.

dehumanize (verb)

Names what degrading portrayals do to people. Ask how denying a group’s full humanity can make exclusion or violence easier to defend.

Use these words

Use the words in an argument

An ideology of English superiority made conquest seem acceptable. Calling Native people undeserving offered a justification for taking land. Descriptions that dehumanize people can make others more willing to accept violence against them.

YPT 28 · YPT 35 · YPT 36

Build your own connection

Use people, actions, and evidence from your reading. The brackets tell you what belongs in each place.

[Person or group] used the idea that [specific belief] to justify [action]. In response, [person or group] argued [counterclaim] to challenge that power.

1402 entries

All study guides →

Words of the week · Week 4

This week’s assigned words and the word parts that help explain them.

colonize (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To establish control over a territory and its people, often by settling there and taking land or resources.

Root & origincolon — settler Colony comes from Latin colonia, a settlement, and colonus, a farmer or settler. Both connect to colere, meaning to cultivate or inhabit.

Same-root relativescolony · colonial · colonization · colonialism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

colony + -ize → colonize

colony: territory settled or controlled by an outside power · -ize: make or establish

Remove the final y of colony before -ize.

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

Queen Elizabeth I encouraged English people to colonize Ireland, where Irish communities already lived.

(YPT 27)

ex- (prefix)

PrefixWord of the day

Out or out of in words such as export and exclude. In words such as ex-president, a separate use means former.

Word-part originex- Latin ex means out or from. The prefix can mark movement outward or removal. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix export (noun / verb) · exclude (verb) · exclusion (noun) · extract (noun / verb) · exhale (verb)

See it in context

Growing tobacco for export increased English colonists’ demand for land already cultivated by the Powhatan.
ex- (out) + port (carry), a historical root analysis.
YPT 33

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

exterior (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The outside surface or outer part of something.

Root & originexter — outside Exterior comes from Latin exterior, meaning farther outside, related to exter, meaning outward or external.

Same-root relativesexternal · externally · externalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

The exterior of a Powhatan house could be covered with tree bark or mats made from reeds.

(YPT 31)

inhabitant (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A person or other living being that lives in a place.

Root & originhabit — have or dwell Inhabitant comes from Latin inhabitare, meaning to dwell in, built on habitare, meaning to live or dwell.

Same-root relativesinhabit · habitat · habitation · habitable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

inhabit + -ant

inhabit: live in a place · -ant: person who does an action

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

The Powhatan were the inhabitants of the land around Jamestown before English settlers arrived; they already farmed corn and lived in towns.

(YPT 31)

wilderness (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An area described as relatively undeveloped by people; the label can overlook Indigenous habitation and land management.

Root & originwild — untamed Wilderness is formed from an older word for wild or untamed, related to Old English wilde, with the noun ending -ness.

Same-root relativeswild · wildly · wildness

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

Jamestown stood in a region described as wilderness, but the Powhatan already farmed corn and lived in towns there.

(YPT 31)

-ant (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: being in a state or condition

Words sharing this suffix dominant (adjective) · significant (adjective) · servant (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ant — being in a state or condition

-ize (verb)

SuffixWord of the day

Forms verbs that mean make, become, or treat in a particular way. A spelling change may occur before the suffix.

Word-part origin-ize This verb ending traces through French and Latin to Greek -izein. It often means to make, become, or treat in a certain way. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix civilize (verb) · colonize (verb) · naturalize (verb) · symbolize (verb) · unionize (verb)

See it in context

In legalize, the suffix -ize turns legal into a verb meaning make legal.
English colonists described themselves as civilized while casting Indigenous people and the Irish as outsiders.
civil + -ize + -ed; -ize forms a verb, and -ed marks its participle.
YPT 27

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Documents C

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ize — make or treat in a certain way

-ness (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns naming a state or quality, usually from adjectives.

Word-part origin-ness English -ness comes from an Old English noun ending. It names a quality or condition. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix kindness (noun) · awareness (noun) · unfairness (noun) · darkness (noun) · connectedness (noun)

See it in context

The kindness that Rowlandson described complicates the hostile stereotypes in her captivity narrative.
kind + -ness → kindness.
YPT 37

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 9 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ness — state, quality, condition

Chapter vocabulary

Words that help you understand the chapter.

captivity narrative (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

An account by someone who was held captive, describing that experience.

Root & origincapt / cept / ceive — take For word study, focus on captivity. These forms trace back to Latin capere, meaning to take, and its related form captus.

Same-root relatives of captivitycapture · captive · accept · receive · perception

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Mary Rowlandson’s and Mary Jemison’s stories include experiences that complicate colonial stereotypes.
YPT 37–38 YPT 43–44

Ch. 2

civilize (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To make people conform to what a speaker considers a developed or acceptable society; colonial uses often assumed one culture was superior.

Root & originciv — citizen Civ comes from Latin civis, meaning a citizen. Civilis meant relating to citizens or civic life.

Same-root relativescivil · civic · civilian · civility · civilization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2 Ch. 9

2 Savages · 9 Frontier

See it in context

English planners said they would civilize Native children by teaching them English and Christianity, treating English ways as superior to Native ways.

(YPT 30–31)

colonial (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Relating to a colony, colonial rule, or the period when a place was a colony.

Root & origincolon — settler Colony comes from Latin colonia, a settlement, and colonus, a farmer or settler. Both connect to colere, meaning to cultivate or inhabit.

Same-root relativescolony · colonize · colonization · colonialism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

colony + -al → colonial

colony: territory controlled by an outside power · -al: related to

The base spelling changes from colony to coloni-. In the course, this word usually functions as an adjective.

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

English colonial rule in Ireland denied Irish people the right to own property, hold public office, or serve on a jury.

(YPT 28)

colonialism (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A system in which an outside power rules a territory and its people, often taking land, labor, and resources.

Root & origincolon — settler Colony comes from Latin colonia, a settlement, and colonus, a farmer or settler. Both connect to colere, meaning to cultivate or inhabit.

Same-root relativescolony · colonial · colonize · colonization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

colonial + -ism

colonial: related to colonies · -ism: system or practice

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

English colonialism in Ireland combined control of land with laws that gave English settlers rights that Irish people did not have.

(YPT 28–29)

contribute (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To give something or help bring about a result.

Root & origintrib / tribut — allot or assign Trib and tribut come from Latin tribuere, meaning to allot, assign, or give.

Same-root relativestribute · contribution · distribute · attribute

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

Growing tobacco for profit contributed to conflict when English settlers sought more of the Powhatans’ farmland.

(YPT 33)

contribution (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Something given or done that helps produce a result.

Root & origintrib / tribut — allot or assign Trib and tribut come from Latin tribuere, meaning to allot, assign, or give.

Same-root relativestribute · contribute · distribute · attribute

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

contribute + -ion → contribution

contribute: give or add to a shared result · -ion: action or result

Drop the final e before -ion.

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

Powhatan farmers made a life-saving contribution to Jamestown when they brought food to starving English colonists.

(YPT 32)

credit (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An arrangement allowing someone to receive goods or money now and pay later.

Root & origincred — believe or trust Cred comes from Latin credere, meaning to believe or trust. Credit originally involves trusting that someone will repay.

Same-root relativescredible · credibility · discredit · credulous

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Jefferson proposed selling goods on credit to draw Native people into debt and pressure them to sell land.
YPT 41

Ch. 2

critique (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A careful evaluation of an idea, work, or practice that explains its strengths, weaknesses, or assumptions.

Root & origincrit — judge or distinguish Critique comes through French from Greek kritikos, relating to judgment, from krinein, meaning to judge or separate.

Same-root relativescritic · critical · criticism · criterion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

Takaki’s critique of the settlers’ claim that Native people were lazy points to Native farms as evidence against it.

(YPT 35–36)

dispossession (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The loss or taking away of someone’s land, property, or rights.

Root & originpossess — hold or occupy Possess traces back to Latin possidere, meaning to occupy or hold. Dis- reverses possession: dispossess means to take possession away.

Same-root relativespossess · possession · possessive · dispossess

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

dispossess + -ion

dispossess: deprive of land or property · -ion: action or result

See it in context

English settlement took land used by Native communities and undermined their ability to support themselves.
YPT 36 YPT 39

Ch. 2

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

ethics (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Principles or questions about right and wrong conduct and people's duties to one another.

Root & origineth — custom or character Ethics traces back to Greek ethos, meaning custom or character. Ethical concerns judgments about how people should act.

Same-root relativesethic · ethical · unethical · ethos

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

A question of ethics is whether settlers’ desire for farmland could justify killing Pequot families who already lived there.

(YPT 35–36)

exterminate (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To kill or destroy an entire group or population.

Root & origintermin — boundary or end Exterminate comes from Latin exterminare, originally to drive beyond a boundary, from terminus, meaning a boundary or end. Its meaning later became destroy completely.

Same-root relativesterminate · termination · terminal · extermination

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

Jefferson supported efforts to exterminate Native people who resisted the colonists, calling for war until none remained.

(YPT 40)

hierarchy (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A system that ranks people or things in levels of power, status, or importance.

Root & originhier / arch — sacred / rule Hierarchy comes from Greek hieros, meaning sacred, and arkhein, meaning to rule. It first described ranks in a religious order, then other systems of ranking.

Same-root relativeshierarchical · hierarch · hierarchies

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

Documents A

See it in context

The English created a hierarchy in Ireland by allowing colonizers to own property and hold office while denying those rights to Irish people.

(YPT 28)

ideological (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Relating to a system of ideas or beliefs about society, power, or how the world should work.

Root & originidea — form or conception Idea comes from Greek idea, meaning a form or appearance. Ideology adds a part connected with Greek logos, meaning an account or study.

Same-root relativesidea · ideal · idealize · ideology

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

ideolog- + -ical

ideolog-: stem related to ideology, a system of ideas · -ical: related to

Recognize the ideology family; do not treat ideolog- as a separate everyday word.

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

The claim that God was making room for English settlers offered an ideological justification for taking land where Native people had died from disease.

(YPT 36)

metaphor (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A comparison that describes one thing as another to highlight a shared quality or idea.

Root & originmeta / phor — across / carry Metaphor comes from Greek metaphora, a transfer, from meta, across, and pherein, to carry. It carries meaning from one kind of thing to another.

Same-root relativesmetaphorical · metaphorically · metaphoric

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

The animal metaphor in the settlers’ description of Native people as ‘wild beasts’ made people with farms seem less than human.

(YPT 35–36)

mission (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An assigned task or purpose; also a religious undertaking or settlement intended to spread a faith.

Root & originmit / miss — send Mit and miss come from Latin mittere, meaning to send or let go, and its related form missus.

Same-root relativestransmit · permission · admission · dismiss

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

The Virginia Company’s stated mission included teaching Christianity to Native people, whom English planners expected to adopt English ways.

(YPT 30–31)

motive (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A reason that leads someone to act.

Root & originmove / mot — move Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Same-root relativesmovement · removal · motion · motivation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2 Ch. 4

2 Savages · 4 Road

See it in context

The desire for profitable tobacco land was a motive for English settlers to take farms that the Powhatan had already cleared.

(YPT 33)

narrativize (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To organize events or information into a story with a particular sequence and perspective.

Root & originnarr — tell Narr comes from Latin narrare, meaning to tell or relate a story.

Same-root relativesnarrate · narrative · narrator · narration

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 2

2 Savages

See it in context

Takaki narrativizes Virginia’s changing policy by moving from promises to teach Christianity to attacks meant to destroy Powhatan communities.

(YPT 30–31; YPT 33–34)

stereotype (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An oversimplified belief applied to an entire group of people.

Root & originstere / type — solid / impression Stereotype combines Greek stereos, meaning solid, with typos, meaning an impression or model. It first named a fixed printing plate, then a fixed idea about people.

Same-root relativesstereotyped · stereotypical · stereotyping

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The claim that Native people were lazy ignored the farms described in the chapter.
YPT 35–36

Ch. 2

transform (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To change something substantially in form, character, or function.

Root & originform — shape Form comes from Latin forma, meaning a shape or pattern. The family also describes shaping ideas and behavior.

Same-root relativesform · reform · formation · information

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

trans- + form

trans-: change across states · form: shape or arrangement

Ch. 2

2 Savages

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

Conflict over land helped transform Virginia’s plan to teach Native people English ways into a campaign to destroy their communities.

(YPT 30–31; YPT 33–34)

Other words & word parts

Explore more course words, prefixes, roots, and suffixes.

-a (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix diaspora (noun) · stigma (noun) · formula (noun)

This historical ending appears in borrowed words; it is not freely added to English words to make new nouns.

Membean word-part reference

-a — forms a noun

-able / -ible (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives meaning able to be, suitable for, or having a particular capacity. The two spellings are not freely interchangeable.

Word-part origin-able / -ible These adjective endings trace to Latin -abilis and -ibilis, often carrying the sense capable of. Their spellings depend on the word’s history. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix profitable (adjective) · acceptable (adjective) · desirable (adjective) · responsible (adjective) · visible (adjective)

See it in context

Profitable tobacco cultivation encouraged colonists to demand more Powhatan land.
profit + -able → profitable; capable of producing profit.
YPT 33

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Membean word-part references

-acious (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: inclined to, abounding in

Words sharing this suffix vivacious (adjective) · mendacious (adjective) · capacious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-acious — inclined to, abounding in

-acity (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: characteristics of

Words sharing this suffix audacity (noun) · tenacity (noun) · veracity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-acity — characteristics of

-acy (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state of being something

Words sharing this suffix conspiracy (noun) · accuracy (noun) · efficacy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-acy — state of being something

-ade (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: thing or person made by a certain process

Words sharing this suffix comrade (noun) · grenade (noun) · facade (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ade — thing or person made by a certain process

-ado (noun / adjective)

Suffix

Forms nouns / adjectives. Meaning: possessing a quality

Words sharing this suffix bravado (noun) · tornado (noun) · aficionado (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ado — possessing a quality

-age (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to do something

Words sharing this suffix manage (verb) · pillage (verb) · ravage (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-age — to do something

-age (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state

Words sharing this suffix bondage (noun) · courage (noun) · barrage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-age — state

-al (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: action, process

Words sharing this suffix arrival (noun) · dispersal (noun) · appraisal (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-al — action, process

-al (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or relating to

Words sharing this suffix political (adjective) · legal (adjective) · general (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-al — of or relating to

-al (adjective)

SuffixWord of the day

Forms adjectives meaning related to or characterized by. This adjective suffix differs from the noun suffix in removal.

Word-part origin-al / -ial (adjective) These adjective endings trace to Latin -alis and -ialis, meaning relating to. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix cultural (adjective) · national (adjective) · tribal (adjective) · personal (adjective) · traditional (adjective)

See it in context

For the Nisei, belonging in America was a cultural question that did not require abandoning Japanese identity.
culture + -al → cultural; drop the final e.
YPT 212

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-al (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns naming an action or result; compare remove → removal and arrive → arrival.

Word-part origin-al (noun) This noun ending came through French and Latin forms. In English it often names an action or its result; it differs from adjective -al. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix removal (noun) · arrival (noun) · refusal (noun) · survival (noun) · denial (noun)

See it in context

Jackson ordered the removal of Native Americans while describing his actions as those of a protective father.
remove + -al → removal; drop the final e.
YPT 70

Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-an (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: relating to

Words sharing this suffix veteran (noun) · urban (adjective) · pagan (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-an — relating to

-ance (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state or condition

Words sharing this suffix appearance (noun) · entrance (noun) · countenance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ance — state or condition

-ancy (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state

Words sharing this suffix militancy (noun) · discrepancy (noun) · infancy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ancy — state

-and (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: to be ...ed

Words sharing this suffix reprimand (noun) · viand (noun) · multiplicand (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-and — to be ...ed

-ane (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or pertaining to

Words sharing this suffix inhumane (adjective) · mundane (adjective) · humane (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ane — of or pertaining to

-ar (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: pertaining to

Words sharing this suffix similar (adjective) · familiar (adjective) · particular (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ar — pertaining to

-arian (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: pertaining to

Words sharing this suffix humanitarian (noun) · utilitarian (noun) · agrarian (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-arian — pertaining to

-ary (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: person or thing belonging to

Words sharing this suffix emissary (noun) · adversary (noun) · functionary (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ary — person or thing belonging to

-ary (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or relating to

Words sharing this suffix military (adjective) · ordinary (adjective) · primary (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ary — of or relating to

-ate (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: possessing a certain quality

Words sharing this suffix separate (adjective) · desperate (adjective) · fortunate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ate — possessing a certain quality

-ate (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to make have a certain quality

Words sharing this suffix cultivate (verb) · accumulate (verb) · negotiate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-ate — to make have a certain quality

-ation (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: act of doing something

Words sharing this suffix emancipation (noun) · proclamation (noun) · conversation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ation — act of doing something

-ation (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state or quality of

Words sharing this suffix starvation (noun) · desperation (noun) · inspiration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ation — state or quality of

-atory (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or belonging to

Words sharing this suffix discriminatory (adjective) · conciliatory (adjective) · congratulatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-atory — of or belonging to

-cide (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: killing

Words sharing this suffix genocide (noun) · suicide (noun) · fratricide (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-cide — killing

-cle (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: little

Words sharing this suffix article (noun) · particle (noun) · muscle (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-cle — little

-dom (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state of being something

Words sharing this suffix freedom (noun) · wisdom (noun) · boredom (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-dom — state of being something

-ed (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: having a particular state

Words sharing this suffix required (adjective) · involved (adjective) · expected (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ed — having a particular state

-eer (verb / noun)

Suffix

Forms verbs / nouns. Meaning: do

Words sharing this suffix engineer (noun / verb) · volunteer (noun / verb) · pioneer (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-eer — do

-en (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: made of, pertaining

Words sharing this suffix golden (adjective) · wooden (adjective) · molten (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-en — made of, pertaining

-ence (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state or condition

Words sharing this suffix experience (noun) · evidence (noun) · difference (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ence — state or condition

-ency (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state of being something

Words sharing this suffix emergency (noun) · agency (noun) · frequency (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ency — state of being something

-end (noun / adjective)

Suffix

Forms nouns / adjectives. Meaning: that which is to be ...ed

Words sharing this suffix legend (noun) · reverend (noun / adjective) · dividend (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-end — that which is to be ...ed

-endo (noun / adverb)

Suffix

Forms nouns / adverbs. Meaning: doing something

Words sharing this suffix crescendo (noun) · decrescendo (noun) · diminuendo (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-endo — doing something

-ent (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: being in a state or condition

Words sharing this suffix different (adjective) · independent (adjective) · resident (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ent — being in a state or condition

-eous (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: resembling

Words sharing this suffix courteous (adjective) · righteous (adjective) · aqueous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-eous — resembling

-er (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to do something

Words sharing this suffix waver (verb) · linger (verb) · loiter (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-er — to do something

-er / -or (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns for a person or thing that performs an action. This is different from comparative -er in stronger.

Word-part origin-er / -or Person-naming -er is inherited through Old English; -or comes through Latin. Both can name someone who performs an action. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix worker (noun) · organizer (noun) · settler (noun) · laborer (noun) · oppressor (noun)

See it in context

After the 1676 uprising, elite colonists shifted toward enslaved African laborers to limit the power of workers.
work + -er + -s → workers; -er names the person, and -s marks plural.
YPT 9

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

-ery (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: act or practice

Words sharing this suffix bravery (noun) · archery (noun) · bribery (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ery — act or practice

-esce (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to do something

Words sharing this suffix coalesce (verb) · fluoresce (verb) · convalesce (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-esce — to do something

-escent (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: becoming; beginning to be

Words sharing this suffix pubescent (adjective) · adolescent (adjective) · fluorescent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-escent — becoming; beginning to be

-et (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: little, diminutive

Words sharing this suffix pocket (noun) · facet (noun) · crochet (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-et — little, diminutive

-ette (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: lessening

Words sharing this suffix cigarette (noun) · coquette (noun) · kitchenette (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ette — lessening

-eur (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: one who

Words sharing this suffix amateur (noun) · entrepreneur (noun) · masseur (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-eur — one who

-eur (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state or quality

Words sharing this suffix grandeur (noun) · hauteur (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-eur — state or quality

-ful (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives meaning full of, having, or producing something; this suffix is spelled with one l.

Word-part origin-ful English -ful comes from Old English full, meaning full. It forms adjectives describing a quality someone or something has. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix powerful (adjective) · successful (adjective) · hopeful (adjective) · painful (adjective) · useful (adjective)

See it in context

The Master Narrative is powerful because it shapes which people and experiences appear to belong in American history.
power + -ful → powerful.
YPT 7

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ful — full of, resembling

-fy (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: make, do

Words sharing this suffix putrefy (verb) · rarefy (verb) · stupefy (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-fy — make, do

-i- (root)

Root

Meaning: connective

Same-root relatives agriculture (noun) · herbivore (noun) · carnivore (noun)

The i connects other word parts, as in agr + i + culture.

Membean word-part reference

-i- — connective

-ia (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: belonging to

Words sharing this suffix memorabilia (noun) · paraphernalia (noun) · intelligentsia (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ia — belonging to

-ia (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: place

Words sharing this suffix utopia (noun) · dystopia (noun) · California (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ia — place

-iac (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: of or connected with

Words sharing this suffix cardiac (adjective) · insomniac (noun / adjective) · egomaniac (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-iac — of or connected with

-ian (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: characteristic of

Words sharing this suffix authoritarian (noun / adjective) · barbarian (noun / adjective) · stentorian (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ian — characteristic of

-ic (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: like,of

Words sharing this suffix economic (adjective) · democratic (adjective) · basic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ic — like,of

-ic (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: one relating to

Words sharing this suffix critic (noun) · heretic (noun) · academic (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ic — one relating to

-ice (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: act of

Words sharing this suffix service (noun) · justice (noun) · apprentice (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ice — act of

-ice (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: period

Words sharing this suffix service (noun) · justice (noun) · cowardice (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ice — period

-id (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or relating to

Words sharing this suffix liquid (adjective) · fluid (adjective) · vivid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-id — of or relating to

-ier (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: that which does something

Words sharing this suffix barrier (noun) · courier (noun) · carrier (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ier — that which does something

-ify (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: make

Words sharing this suffix justify (verb) · identify (verb) · qualify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-ify — make

-ile (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: tending to do or be something

Words sharing this suffix hostile (adjective) · mobile (adjective) · docile (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ile — tending to do or be something

-ine (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or relating to

Words sharing this suffix divine (adjective) · genuine (adjective) · feminine (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ine — of or relating to

-ing (verb / adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms verbs / adjectives / nouns. Meaning: a or of a continuous action

Words sharing this suffix loving (adjective) · teeming (adjective) · singing (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ing — a or of a continuous action

-ion / -ation (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns for actions, processes, results, or states. The base may change spelling, as migrate becomes migration.

Word-part origin-ion / -ation These noun endings come through French and Latin -io, with the related form -ionis. They commonly name actions, processes, or results. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix migration (noun) · education (noun) · organization (noun) · segregation (noun) · exclusion (noun)

See it in context

The Knights of St. Crispin became a labor organization through which workers demanded better pay and shorter hours.
organize + -ation → organization; drop the final e.
YPT 110

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ion — act, state

-ior (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: more

Words sharing this suffix inferior (adjective) · interior (adjective) · superior (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ior — more

-ious (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of the nature of

Words sharing this suffix religious (adjective) · ambitious (adjective) · furious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ious — of the nature of

-is (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix crisis (noun) · thesis (noun) · analysis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-is — forms a noun

-ise (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to make have a certain quality

Words sharing this suffix organise (verb) · anesthetise (verb) · chastise (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-ise — to make have a certain quality

-ish (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to do something

Words sharing this suffix establish (verb) · abolish (verb) · accomplish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-ish — to do something

-ish (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of

Words sharing this suffix lavish (adjective) · selfish (adjective) · devilish (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ish — of

-ish (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: verging upon, somewhat

Words sharing this suffix feverish (adjective) · fiendish (adjective) · puckish (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ish — verging upon, somewhat

-ism (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: action or process of doing something

Words sharing this suffix criticism (noun) · terrorism (noun) · journalism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ism — action or process of doing something

-ism (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: set of beliefs

Words sharing this suffix racism (noun) · liberalism (noun) · conservatism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ism — set of beliefs

-ism (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: condition

Words sharing this suffix albinism (noun) · rheumatism (noun) · magnetism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ism — condition

-ism (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: distinctive trait of language

Words sharing this suffix euphemism (noun) · aphorism (noun) · archaism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ism — distinctive trait of language

-ism (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: name of a certain system

Words sharing this suffix fascism (noun) · nationalism (noun) · socialism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ism — name of a certain system

-ism (noun)

SuffixWord of the day

Forms nouns for systems of belief, practices, movements, or conditions; the whole word identifies the particular system.

Word-part origin-ism This noun ending came through French and Latin from Greek -ismos. It can name a practice, system, belief, or condition. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix racism (noun) · nativism (noun) · nationalism (noun) · fascism (noun) · Zionism (noun)

See it in context

Racism restricted African Americans’ lives in Northern states even after those states ended slavery.
race + -ism → racism; drop the final e.
YPT 86

Ch. 1 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-ist (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: one who performs an action; believer

Words sharing this suffix racist (noun) · tourist (noun) · antagonist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ist — one who performs an action; believer

-ist (noun / adjective)

Suffix

Often forms nouns for people who support a cause or practice an activity; many -ist words also work as adjectives.

Word-part origin-ist This ending came through French and Latin from Greek -istes. It often names a person associated with an activity or belief. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix abolitionist (noun) · activist (noun / adjective) · journalist (noun) · nativist (noun / adjective) · Zionist (noun / adjective)

See it in context

After escaping slavery, Douglass became an abolitionist who publicly challenged slavery and racism.
abolition + -ist → abolitionist.
YPT 94

Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 8 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-istic (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: characterized by

Words sharing this suffix antagonistic (adjective) · realistic (adjective) · optimistic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-istic — characterized by

-ite (verb)

Suffix

Forms verbs. Meaning: to do something

Words sharing this suffix unite (verb) · ignite (verb) · expedite (verb)

Membean word-part reference

-ite — to do something

-ite (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: of the nature of

Words sharing this suffix finite (adjective) · infinite (noun / adjective) · meteorite (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ite — of the nature of

-itious (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of the nature of

Words sharing this suffix adventitious (adjective) · factitious (adjective) · fictitious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-itious — of the nature of

-itude (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state or quality of

Words sharing this suffix servitude (noun) · attitude (noun) · multitude (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-itude — state or quality of

-ity (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns that name a quality or state; the base sometimes changes spelling.

Word-part origin-ity This noun ending came through French from Latin -itas, with the form -itatis. It commonly names a quality or condition. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix equality (noun) · ethnicity (noun) · responsibility (noun) · diversity (noun) · nationality (noun)

See it in context

African Americans continued to demand equality after emancipation because legal freedom had not ended racial exclusion.
equal + -ity → equality.
YPT 9

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ity — state or quality

-ive (adjective / noun)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / nouns. Meaning: of or that which does something

Words sharing this suffix native (adjective) · alternative (noun) · expensive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ive — of or that which does something

-ive (adjective)

Suffix

Usually forms adjectives describing a tendency, capacity, or relationship. Some -ive words can also function as nouns.

Word-part origin-ive This adjective ending came through French from Latin -ivus. It often describes a tendency, function, or relationship to an action. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix productive (adjective) · destructive (adjective) · inclusive (adjective) · active (adjective) · progressive (adjective)

See it in context

Japanese immigrants used intensive labor and irrigation to make small farms productive.
product- (related to produce) + -ive; the word describes farms.
YPT 205

Ch. 1 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 7 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-ization (noun)

SuffixWord of the day

Forms nouns for a process or its result. It combines the verb ending -ize with the noun ending -ation.

Word-part origin-ization This compound ending joins -ize, historically from Greek -izein, to -ation, a Latin-derived noun ending. It names a process or result. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Dehumanization made unequal treatment appear acceptable to people who accepted racist ideas.

Words sharing this suffix dehumanize (verb) · dehumanization (noun) · industrialize (verb) · industrialization (noun)

-less (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives meaning without or lacking.

Word-part origin-less English -less comes from Old English -leas, meaning without or lacking. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix landless (adjective) · homeless (adjective) · jobless (adjective) · helpless (adjective) · powerless (adjective)

See it in context

Landless freemen shared grievances with indentured servants and enslaved people in colonial Virginia.
land + -less → landless.
YPT 53

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-less — lacking

-ling (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: small

Words sharing this suffix fledgling (noun) · underling (noun) · duckling (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ling — small

-logy (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: study, science, theory

Words sharing this suffix etymology (noun) · technology (noun) · biology (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-logy — study, science, theory

-ly (adverb)

Suffix

Often turns an adjective into an adverb, showing how something happens. Friendly is an adjective, so check the sentence as well as the ending.

Word-part origin-ly (adverb) English -ly developed from Old English -lice, related to an ending meaning like or having the form of. It commonly turns adjectives into adverbs. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix legally (adverb) · racially (adverb) · politically (adverb) · economically (adverb) · gradually (adverb)

See it in context

The chapter describes Cherokee removal as legally authorized while questioning the justice of the laws used to justify it.
legal + -ly → legally; the adverb modifies authorized.
YPT 74

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ly — in a particular way or manner

-ment (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns that name an action, its result, or a condition.

Word-part origin-ment This noun ending came through French from Latin -mentum. It commonly names an action, process, or result. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix allotment (noun) · employment (noun) · government (noun) · settlement (noun) · internment (noun)

See it in context

Dawes promoted allotment as a way to replace communal landholding with individual property.
allot + -ment → allotment.
YPT 174

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

-ment — quality, condition

-monious (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or resembling

Words sharing this suffix acrimonious (adjective) · parsimonious (adjective) · sanctimonious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-monious — of or resembling

-o- (root)

Root

Meaning: connective

Same-root relatives geography (noun) · astrology (noun) · technology (noun)

The o connects other word parts, as in ge + o + graphy.

Membean word-part reference

-o- — connective

-on (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix horizon (noun) · electron (noun) · dragon (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-on — forms a noun

-or (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: one who does something

Words sharing this suffix administrator (noun) · contractor (noun) · operator (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-or — one who does something

-or (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state

Words sharing this suffix terror (noun) · horror (noun) · fervor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-or — state

-ory (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: place

Words sharing this suffix factory (noun) · territory (noun) · laboratory (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ory — place

-ory (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of or relating to

Words sharing this suffix migratory (adjective) · sensory (adjective) · statutory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ory — of or relating to

-os (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix chaos (noun) · bathos (noun) · cosmos (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-os — forms a noun

-ose (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: full of, having

Words sharing this suffix morose (adjective) · grandiose (adjective) · jocose (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ose — full of, having

-osis (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state; process; condition

Words sharing this suffix neurosis (noun) · diagnosis (noun) · tuberculosis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-osis — state; process; condition

-ous (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: full of, having

Words sharing this suffix dangerous (adjective) · vicious (adjective) · nervous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ous — full of, having

-ous (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: possessing the nature of

Words sharing this suffix tremendous (adjective) · previous (adjective) · enormous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ous — possessing the nature of

-rium (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: place for; thing used for

Words sharing this suffix auditorium (noun) · aquarium (noun) · crematorium (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-rium — place for; thing used for

-ry (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: act or practice

Words sharing this suffix chemistry (noun) · revelry (noun) · dentistry (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ry — act or practice

-ship (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns naming a status, relationship, role, or skill.

Word-part origin-ship English -ship comes from Old English -scipe, an ending for a state, condition, or relationship. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix citizenship (noun) · ownership (noun) · leadership (noun) · membership (noun) · friendship (noun)

See it in context

White Irish immigrants could seek citizenship under rules that excluded Asian immigrants.
citizen + -ship → citizenship.
YPT 12

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

-some (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: having a certain quality

Words sharing this suffix troublesome (adjective) · loathsome (adjective) · wholesome (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-some — having a certain quality

-tic (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: relating to a process or state

Words sharing this suffix patriotic (adjective) · therapeutic (adjective) · rustic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-tic — relating to a process or state

-ty (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: state; quality

Words sharing this suffix safety (noun) · poverty (noun) · beauty (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ty — state; quality

-uble (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: handy, capable of

Words sharing this suffix soluble (adjective) · indissoluble (adjective) · voluble (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-uble — handy, capable of

-ul- (root)

Root

Meaning: little

Same-root relatives particular (noun) · calculate (verb) · formula (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ul- — little

-ul- (root)

Root

Meaning: repeated activity

Same-root relatives querulous (adjective) · tremulous (adjective) · garrulous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ul- — repeated activity

-ulent (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: rich in, full of

Words sharing this suffix turbulent (adjective) · opulent (adjective) · truculent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-ulent — rich in, full of

-um (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix forum (noun) · maximum (noun) · spectrum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-um — forms a noun

-uous (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: of the nature of

Words sharing this suffix continuous (adjective) · ambiguous (adjective) · conspicuous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-uous — of the nature of

-ure (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: shows actions or results

Words sharing this suffix culture (noun) · structure (noun) · pressure (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-ure — shows actions or results

-urnal (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives. Meaning: active during a given period

Words sharing this suffix nocturnal (adjective) · diurnal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

-urnal — active during a given period

-us (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: forms a noun

Words sharing this suffix focus (noun) · stimulus (noun) · fungus (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-us — forms a noun

-ward (adjective / adverb)

Suffix

Forms adjectives / adverbs. Meaning: towards a place

Words sharing this suffix forward (adjective / adverb) · northward (adjective / adverb) · upward (adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

-ward — towards a place

-y (noun)

Suffix

Forms nouns. Meaning: activity

Words sharing this suffix treaty (noun) · geography (noun) · journey (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-y — activity

-y (noun / adjective)

Suffix

Forms nouns / adjectives. Meaning: state or condition

Words sharing this suffix hierarchy (noun) · category (noun) · tyranny (noun)

Membean word-part reference

-y — state or condition

-y (adjective)

Suffix

Forms adjectives meaning having, full of, or characterized by something. A final y is not always this suffix: city and history are nouns.

Word-part origin-y (adjective) Adjective -y comes from Old English -ig. It often means having or characterized by a quality. These examples share the suffix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this suffix dirty (adjective) · wealthy (adjective) · healthy (adjective) · rainy (adjective) · bloody (adjective)

See it in context

Housing discrimination confined many free Black families to crowded, dirty neighborhoods with limited resources.
dirt + -y → dirty; the adjective describes the neighborhoods.
YPT 87

Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

a- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: away, from

Words sharing this prefix avert (verb) · aversion (noun) · avocation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

a- — away, from

a- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not, without

Words sharing this prefix atomic (adjective) · atom (noun) · amnesty (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

a- — not, without

a- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards, at

Words sharing this prefix abandon (noun / verb) · achieve (verb) · aspect (noun)

Membean word-part reference

a- — to, towards, at

ab- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: away, from

Words sharing this prefix abuse (noun / verb) · absent (verb / adjective) · absolute (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ab- — away, from

abil (root)

Root

Meaning: handy

Same-root relatives ability (noun) · inability (noun) · disability (noun)

Membean word-part reference

abil — handy

abol (root)

Root

Meaning: destroy, get rid of

Same-root relatives abolition (noun) · abolitionist (noun) · abolish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

abol — destroy, get rid of

abolition (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The ending of slavery or another institution.

Root & originabol — destroy or do away with Abolition traces back to Latin abolere, meaning to destroy or put an end to. Do not read abol as the prefix ab plus the English word oil.

Same-root relativesabolish · abolitionist · abolitionism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Jefferson discussed gradual abolition while continuing to own enslaved people.
YPT 60

Ch. 3

abolitionist (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person who works to end slavery.

Root & originabol — destroy or do away with Abolition traces back to Latin abolere, meaning to destroy or put an end to. Do not read abol as the prefix ab plus the English word oil.

Same-root relativesabolish · abolition · abolitionism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

abolition + -ist

abolition: ending slavery or another institution · -ist: person who supports a cause

As an adjective, abolitionist describes support for abolition.

See it in context

After escaping, Frederick Douglass became a spokesman against slavery and racism.
YPT 94

Ch. 5

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

abs- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: away, from

Words sharing this prefix abstract (adjective) · abscess (noun) · abstain (verb)

Membean word-part reference

abs- — away, from

ac (root)

Root

Meaning: sharp, keen, point

Same-root relatives acute (noun / adjective) · acidity (noun) · acidic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ac — sharp, keen, point

ac- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix accumulate (verb) · access (noun / verb) · accomplish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ac- — to, towards

accumulate (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To collect or gain more of something over time.

Root & origincumul — heap Accumulate comes from Latin accumulare, to heap up, from cumulus, meaning a heap.

Same-root relativesaccumulation · cumulative · cumulus

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Profits from crops grown by enslaved people helped plantation owners accumulate wealth and buy more land.

acerb (root)

Root

Meaning: bitter, sharp, tart

Same-root relatives exacerbation (noun) · exacerbate (verb) · acerbic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

acerb — bitter, sharp, tart

acr (root)

Root

Meaning: sharp, keen, fierce

Same-root relatives acrid (adjective) · acridness (noun) · acrimonious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

acr — sharp, keen, fierce

act (root)

Root

Meaning: drive, do

Root & originact — do or drive Act comes from Latin agere, meaning to do or drive; actus is a related form.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives act (noun / verb) · activity (noun) · active (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

act — drive, do

ad- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix address (noun) · adopt (verb) · adapt (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ad- — to, towards

add (root)

Root

Meaning: attach to, add, give to

Same-root relatives additive (noun / adjective) · additionally (adverb) · addenda (noun)

Membean word-part reference

add — attach to, add, give to

aesthet (root)

Root

Meaning: feel, perceive

Same-root relatives aesthetic (noun / adjective) · aesthete (noun) · aesthetics (noun)

Membean word-part reference

aesthet — feel, perceive

af- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix affection (noun) · affirm (verb) · affiliation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

af- — to, towards

affect (root)

Root

Meaning: influenced, strongly moved

Same-root relatives affectionate (adjective) · unaffected (adjective) · affectation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

affect — influenced, strongly moved

ag (root)

Root

Meaning: do, act, drive

Same-root relatives agent (noun) · agency (noun) · agenda (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ag — do, act, drive

ag- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix aggressive (adjective) · aggravate (verb) · aggregate (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ag- — to, towards

aggress (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To initiate an attack or act aggressively against someone; an uncommon verb related to aggression.

Root & origingress — step or go Gress comes from Latin gradi, meaning to step, and its related form gressus.

Same-root relativesprogress · progressive · aggression · aggressive · regress

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The account asks why one side chose to aggress against its neighbor.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

agog (root)

Root

Meaning: leading, drawing forth

Same-root relatives synagogue (noun) · demagogue (noun) · demagoguery (noun)

Membean word-part reference

agog — leading, drawing forth

agon (root)

Root

Meaning: struggle, contest, conflict

Same-root relatives antagonistic (adjective) · antagonist (noun) · agony (noun)

Membean word-part reference

agon — struggle, contest, conflict

agr (root)

Root

Meaning: field, country

Same-root relatives agriculture (noun) · agricultural (adjective) · agrarian (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

agr — field, country

agriculture (noun)

Word of the day

The cultivation of crops and raising of animals for food or other products.

Root & origincult / cultur — cultivate or care for Culture and cultivate trace back to Latin colere, meaning to till, tend, or inhabit. Culture’s meaning grew from tending land to developing shared ways of life.

Same-root relativesculture · cultural · cultivate · cultivation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Changes in agriculture affected the demand for land and labor.

Documents A

al (root)

Root

Meaning: cause to grow, feed

Same-root relatives coalesce (verb) · coalescence (noun) · coalition (noun)

Membean word-part reference

al — cause to grow, feed

al- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix allocate (verb) · alleviate (verb) · alliteration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

al- — to, towards

alg (root)

Root

Meaning: pain

Same-root relatives nostalgia (noun) · analgesia (noun) · analgesic (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

alg — pain

Alien Land Law (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

California law restricting land ownership by immigrants barred from citizenship.

Root & originland — ground or territory For word study, focus on land. Land comes from Old English land, meaning ground or territory. It remains a whole English base in landless and landlord.

Same-root relatives of landland · landless · landlord · landowner · landownership

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Oyama family challenged the state’s attempt to seize land held in their citizen son’s name.
YPT 298–299

Ch. 15

all- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: other, different

Words sharing this prefix allegory (noun) · allegorical (adjective) · allele (noun)

Membean word-part reference

all- — other, different

alliance (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A relationship in which people or groups cooperate to pursue shared goals.

Root & originlig — bind Alliance comes through French from Latin alligare, to bind to, built on ligare, meaning to bind. The spelling changed on its way into English.

Same-root relativesally · allied · league · obligation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Black and white rebels formed an alliance when they marched together against Governor Berkeley in Bacon’s Rebellion.

(YPT 57)

allotment (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An individual parcel created by dividing land formerly held communally.

Root & originlot — portion or share Allotment is allot plus -ment. Allot came through French from lot, a word for a portion or share with Germanic roots.

Same-root relativeslot · allot · allotted · reallot

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

allot + -ment

allot: assign a share · -ment: action or result

See it in context

The Dawes Act authorized individual family allotments on reservation lands without tribal consent.
YPT 174

Ch. 9

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

alt (root)

Root

Meaning: high

Same-root relatives altitude (noun) · exalt (verb) · altimeter (noun)

Membean word-part reference

alt — high

alter (root)

Root

Meaning: another

Same-root relatives alternative (noun) · alter (verb) · alternate (noun / verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

alter — another

am (root)

Root

Meaning: love

Same-root relatives amateur (noun / adjective) · amorous (adjective) · amatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

am — love

amb- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: both, around

Words sharing this prefix ambition (noun / verb) · ambitious (adjective) · ambiguous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

amb- — both, around

ambi- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: both

Words sharing this prefix ambidexterity (noun) · ambidextrous (adjective) · ambivalence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ambi- — both

ambul (root)

Root

Meaning: walk, go around

Same-root relatives ambulance (noun) · ambulant (adjective) · ambulate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ambul — walk, go around

ami (root)

Root

Meaning: friend

Same-root relatives amiable (adjective) · amicable (adjective) · amity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ami — friend

ampl (root)

Root

Meaning: large

Same-root relatives amplitude (noun) · amplify (verb) · amplification (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ampl — large

an- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not, without

Words sharing this prefix anecdote (noun) · anonymous (adjective) · anemia (noun)

Membean word-part reference

an- — not, without

an- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix annexation (noun) · annihilate (verb) · annex (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

an- — to, towards

ana- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: back

Words sharing this prefix analysis (noun) · analyze (verb) · analytic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ana- — back

ang (root)

Root

Meaning: distress

Same-root relatives anguish (noun / verb) · anguished (adjective) · angst (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ang — distress

Angel Island (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An immigration station in San Francisco Bay where arriving Chinese immigrants were detained and examined.

Root & originisland — land surrounded by water Angel Island is a place name. For word study, island comes from Old English iegland, island; its s was added later under the influence of isle, a word with a different origin.

Same-root relatives of islandisland · islander · islanders

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Applicants waited in crowded barracks and faced interviews before they could enter the United States.
YPT 162 YPT 165–166

Ch. 8

anim (root)

Root

Meaning: mind, spirit

Same-root relatives animal (noun / adjective) · unanimous (adjective) · animated (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

anim — mind, spirit

ann (root)

Root

Meaning: year

Same-root relatives annual (noun) · anniversary (noun) · annalist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ann — year

annexation (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The addition of territory to a state's control.

Root & originnex — bind Annexation comes from Latin annectere, to bind to, using nectere, meaning to bind or tie, and its related form nexus.

Same-root relativesannex · annexed · connection · nexus

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

annex + -ation

annex: add territory to a state · -ation: process or result

See it in context

The United States annexed Texas in 1845, provoking a protest from Mexico.
YPT 128

Ch. 7

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

ant- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: opposite, against

Words sharing this prefix antagonistic (adjective) · antagonist (noun) · antagonize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ant- — opposite, against

ante- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: before

Words sharing this prefix antecedent (noun / adjective) · antebellum (adjective) · antecede (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ante- — before

anthrop (root)

Root

Meaning: human

Same-root relatives anthropologist (noun) · anthropology (noun) · anthropomorphic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

anthrop — human

anti- (prefix)

Prefix

Against or opposed to; identifies the target of a movement, belief, or policy.

Word-part originanti- Greek anti means against or opposite. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix antislavery (adjective) · antiracist (noun / adjective) · antiblack (adjective) · antisemitism (noun) · antiwar (adjective)

See it in context

Thousands of Irish people signed an antislavery petition, although many Irish immigrants later joined antiblack movements.
anti- (against) + slavery.
YPT 112

Ch. 1 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Example word references

Membean word-part reference

anti- — opposite, against

antiqu (root)

Root

Meaning: old

Same-root relatives antique (noun / verb / adjective) · antiquity (noun) · antiquarian (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

antiqu — old

anxi (root)

Root

Meaning: worried

Same-root relatives anxious (adjective) · anxiously (adverb) · anxiousness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

anxi — worried

ap- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix appeal (noun / verb) · apply (verb) · approach (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ap- — to, towards

apo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: away, from

Words sharing this prefix apology (noun) · apocalyptic (adjective) · apocryphal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

apo- — away, from

apt (root)

Root

Meaning: suitable, fit

Same-root relatives adapt (verb) · apt (adjective) · aptitude (noun)

Membean word-part reference

apt — suitable, fit

ar- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix arrest (noun / verb) · arrangement (noun) · arraign (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ar- — to, towards

arbitr (root)

Root

Meaning: think, judge

Same-root relatives arbitrary (adjective) · arbitrarily (adverb) · arbitrate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

arbitr — think, judge

arbor (root)

Root

Meaning: tree

Same-root relatives arboreal (adjective) · arbor (noun) · arboreta (noun)

Membean word-part reference

arbor — tree

arc (root)

Root

Meaning: chest, coffer

Same-root relatives arcane (adjective) · coerce (verb) · ark (noun)

Membean word-part reference

arc — chest, coffer

arch (root)

RootWord of the day

A Greek root connected to ruling or leadership; in hierarchy it helps explain an arrangement of authority into ranks.

Root & originarch — rule Arch in this course comes from Greek arkhein, meaning to rule. It is different from the arch- used for ancient in archaeology.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives hierarchy (noun) · arch (noun / verb / adjective) · anarchy (noun)

Word-part references

Membean word-part reference

arch — rule

arch (root)

Root

Meaning: ancient

Same-root relatives archaeology (noun) · archaic (adjective) · archaism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

arch — ancient

arch- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: chief, principal

Words sharing this prefix architect (noun) · architecture (noun) · architectural (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

arch- — chief, principal

ard (root)

Root

Meaning: burn, be on fire

Same-root relatives ardor (noun) · ardent (adjective) · arid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ard — burn, be on fire

art (root)

Root

Meaning: skill, craft

Same-root relatives artistic (adjective) · artificial (adjective) · artfully (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

art — skill, craft

articul (root)

Root

Meaning: to divide into small joints; speak clearly

Same-root relatives articulate (verb / adjective) · inarticulate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

articul — to divide into small joints; speak clearly

as- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix assumption (noun) · assimilate (verb) · assembly (noun)

Membean word-part reference

as- — to, towards

asistencia (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Help exchanged on trust, with an expectation of returning kindness when possible.

Root & originsist — stand Asistencia is Spanish for assistance. It is related to asistir, from Latin assistere, to stand beside, built on sistere, to stand.

Same-root relativesasistencia (Spanish: assistance) · asistir (Spanish: assist) · assist · assistance · assistant

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Barrio residents shared food, lodging, and information with newcomers.
YPT 250

Ch. 12

asper (root)

Root

Meaning: rough, harsh, roused to anger

Same-root relatives exasperation (noun) · exasperate (verb) · exasperating (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

asper — rough, harsh, roused to anger

assimilation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The process through which people adopt the practices or identity of a dominant or surrounding culture, sometimes under pressure or force.

Root & originsimil — like or alike Assimilation comes from Latin assimilare, meaning to make similar, built on similis, meaning alike.

Same-root relativessimilar · similarity · assimilate · dissimilar

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

assimilate + -ion → assimilation

assimilate: make or become similar; absorb into a group · -ion: process

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

The school promoted assimilation by discouraging students from speaking their home languages.

Ch. 9

Documents B · 9 Frontier

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

aster (root)

Root

Meaning: star

Same-root relatives disaster (noun) · asterisk (noun / verb) · asteroid (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

aster — star

at- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards

Words sharing this prefix attend (verb) · attempt (verb) · attractive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

at- — to, towards

au (root)

Root

Meaning: bird

Same-root relatives auspices (noun) · auspicious (adjective) · inauspicious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

au — bird

aud (root)

Root

Meaning: hear, listen to

Same-root relatives audit (noun / verb) · auditorium (noun) · audible (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

aud — hear, listen to

augur (root)

Root

Meaning: diviner, seer

Same-root relatives inaugural (noun / adjective) · augur (noun / verb) · inauguration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

augur — diviner, seer

auth (root)

Root

Meaning: author

Same-root relatives authority (noun) · author (noun / verb) · authentic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

auth — author

auto- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: self, same

Words sharing this prefix automatically (adverb) · autobiography (noun) · automatic (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

auto- — self, same

av (root)

Root

Meaning: desire, be eager

Same-root relatives avarice (noun) · avaricious (adjective) · avid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

av — desire, be eager

bango (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The identification number assigned to a plantation worker.

Root & originban / gō — number or designation Bango is Japanese bangō, meaning a number. It combines ban, a number or place in a sequence, and gō, a number or designation; plantations used the word for workers’ identification numbers.

Words sharing bangō · Japanesebangō (Japanese: number) · denwa bangō (Japanese: telephone number)

Word-history source

Word history: Wiktionary · Japanese

See it in context

Bosses addressed workers by the numbers on brass disks worn around their necks.
YPT 194

Ch. 10

bar (root)

Root

Meaning: barrier

Same-root relatives bar (noun / verb) · barrier (noun) · barricade (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

bar — barrier

"barbarian" (noun / adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A derogatory label that presents a person or group as uncivilized or inferior; it reflects the speaker's judgment rather than a neutral category.

Root & originbarbar — foreign speech Barbarian traces to Greek barbaros, used for people whose speech sounded foreign to Greek speakers. Its later insulting meaning shows how a label can turn difference into a claim of inferiority.

Same-root relativesbarbaric · barbarous · barbarism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer asks how calling a group "barbarian" helped justify its exclusion.

Ch. 8

8 China

barr (root)

Root

Meaning: barrier

Same-root relatives embarrassment (noun) · barricade (noun / verb) · barrage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

barr — barrier

barracks (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Buildings used for shared lodging, often associated with military facilities.

Root & originbarrack — hut or shelter Barrack came through French from Spanish barraca, meaning a hut or shelter. Barracks is the usual form for soldiers’ housing.

Same-root relativesbarrack

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Families confined in camps were crowded into barracks, with a family sharing one room.
YPT 277

Ch. 14

barrios (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Mexican American neighborhoods that combined residence, culture, and community support.

Root & originbarrio — neighborhood Barrio is Spanish for a neighborhood. It traces to Arabic words for the outer area or open country beyond a city.

Same-root relativesbarrio

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Barrios offered job information and assistance even while segregation and poverty constrained residents.
YPT 246 YPT 250

Ch. 12

bas (root)

Root

Meaning: low, short

Same-root relatives base (adjective) · abase (verb) · abasement (noun)

Here base means low or morally unworthy.

Membean word-part reference

bas — low, short

bas (root)

Root

Meaning: step

Same-root relatives basis (noun) · basic (noun / adjective) · base (noun)

Here base means a foundation or starting point.

Membean word-part reference

bas — step

bat (root)

Root

Meaning: beat, pound

Same-root relatives debate (noun / verb) · battery (noun) · combatant (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

bat — beat, pound

be- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix beset (verb) · besmirch (verb) · bewilder (verb)

Membean word-part reference

be- — thoroughly

be- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to treat in a certain way

Words sharing this prefix bestow (verb) · belie (verb) · bedraggled (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

be- — to treat in a certain way

bell (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: war, fighting

Root & originbell — war Rebellion comes from Latin rebellare, to wage war again, with re-, again, and bellum, meaning war.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives rebellion (noun) · rebellious (adjective) · belligerent (noun)

Membean word-part reference

bell — war, fighting

bene- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: well

Words sharing this prefix benefit (noun) · beneficial (adjective) · beneficiary (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

bene- — well

bi- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: twice

Words sharing this prefix bilingual (noun / adjective) · binomial (noun / adjective) · bicycle (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

bi- — twice

bilingual education (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Education using two languages.

Root & originlingu — tongue or language Lingu comes from Latin lingua, meaning tongue or language. Multi- means many; bi- means two.

Same-root relativeslanguage · linguistic · bilingual · multilingual · multilingualism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The GI Forum called for classes taught in both English and Spanish.
YPT 301

Ch. 15

bio (root)

Root

Meaning: life

Same-root relatives autobiography (noun) · biology (noun) · biography (noun)

Membean word-part reference

bio — life

Black Nationalism (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A commitment to Black collective identity, pride, unity, and power.

Root & originnat — born For word study, focus on nation. Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relatives of nationnation · national · native · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Marcus Garvey’s UNIA promoted Black businesses and a vision of worldwide Black unity.
YPT 269–270

Ch. 13

Black Power (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A political call for Black people to determine their own collective future.

Root & originpower — be able For word study, focus on power. Power came through French from Latin posse, meaning to be able. English adds parts to the whole base power.

Same-root relatives of powerpower · powerful · powerless · empower · empowerment

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter contrasts this call with earlier coalition-based efforts to achieve equality through integration.
YPT 310

Ch. 15

blight (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A plant disease that damages or destroys crops.

Root & originblight — damage to growth Blight is an English base whose earlier origin is uncertain. Its plant-disease meaning developed into a word for damage or ruin.

Same-root relativesblighted · blighting

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Potato blight beginning in 1845 destroyed the main food source of many poor Irish families.
YPT 107–108

Ch. 6

blood unions (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Labor unions organized around a shared ethnic identity.

Root & originuni — one For word study, focus on union. Union comes from Latin unio, oneness or unity, related to unus, meaning one. The family describes joining parts or people together.

Same-root relatives of unionunion · unite · unity · unionism · unionize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Japanese workers initially organized through these unions before broader cooperation with Filipino workers.
YPT 196–198

Ch. 10

bol (root)

Root

Meaning: throw

Same-root relatives symbolize (verb) · symbol (noun) · hyperbolic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

bol — throw

bon (root)

Root

Meaning: good

Same-root relatives bonus (noun) · bonanza (noun) · bonhomie (noun)

Membean word-part reference

bon — good

boycott (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A coordinated refusal to buy, use, or participate in something in order to apply pressure for change.

Root & originBoycott — a person’s surname Boycott was formed from the surname of Charles Boycott, an Irish land agent whom people collectively refused to work or trade with.

Same-root relativesboycotts · boycotted · boycotting

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Residents organized a boycott to demand an end to discriminatory treatment.

Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

Bracero Program (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A U.S.-Mexico guest-worker program, operating from 1942 to 1964, that brought Mexican workers to the United States on temporary labor contracts.

Root & originbrazo — arm Bracero comes from Spanish brazo, meaning arm, and names a manual laborer. Brazo traces back to Latin bracchium, also meaning arm.

Same-root relativesbracero · braceros · abrazo (Spanish: embrace)

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster

See it in context

The essay compares employers' demand for labor under the Bracero Program with workers' experiences and rights.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

braceros (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Mexican guest workers admitted to work for a specified period.

Root & originbrazo — arm Bracero comes from Spanish brazo, meaning arm, and names a manual laborer. Brazo traces back to Latin bracchium, also meaning arm.

Same-root relativesbracero · abrazo (Spanish: embrace)

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster

See it in context

The federal government used a bracero program to meet wartime farm-labor needs.
YPT 285

Ch. 14

brev (root)

Root

Meaning: short

Same-root relatives brevity (noun) · abbreviate (verb) · abbreviation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

brev — short

burs (root)

Root

Meaning: purse

Same-root relatives bursitis (noun) · disburse (verb) · reimburse (verb)

Membean word-part reference

burs — purse

but (root)

Root

Meaning: strike, push

Same-root relatives butt (noun / verb) · rebut (verb) · abut (verb)

Membean word-part reference

but — strike, push

cad (root)

Root

Meaning: fall

Same-root relatives cascade (noun / verb) · cadaver (noun) · cadaverous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cad — fall

cal (root)

Root

Meaning: beauty

Same-root relatives calisthenics (noun) · calligrapher (noun) · calligraphy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cal — beauty

cal (root)

Root

Meaning: warm, be hot

Same-root relatives caloric (adjective) · calorie (noun) · scald (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cal — warm, be hot

can (root)

Root

Meaning: dog

Same-root relatives canary (noun / adjective) · canines (noun) · kennel (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

can — dog

cand (root)

Root

Meaning: be of brilliant whiteness

Same-root relatives candidate (noun) · candle (noun / verb) · candid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cand — be of brilliant whiteness

canon (root)

Root

Meaning: rule, straight rod, standard

Same-root relatives canon (noun) · canonize (verb) · canonical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

canon — rule, straight rod, standard

cant (root)

Root

Meaning: sing

Same-root relatives cant (noun / verb) · incantation (noun) · recant (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cant — sing

cap (root)

Root

Meaning: take, seize

Same-root relatives capacity (noun) · capable (adjective) · capability (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cap — take, seize

capit (root)

Root

Meaning: head

Same-root relatives capital (noun / adjective) · capitol (noun) · capitalism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

capit — head

capt (root)

Root

Meaning: taken, seized

Root & origincapt / cept / ceive — take These forms trace back to Latin capere, meaning to take, and its related form captus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives captive (noun / adjective) · capture (verb) · captivity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

capt — taken, seized

car (root)

Root

Meaning: wagon, cart

Same-root relatives cargo (noun) · carrier (noun) · carriage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

car — wagon, cart

carn (root)

Root

Meaning: meat

Same-root relatives carnal (adjective) · carnival (noun) · carnage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

carn — meat

cas (root)

Root

Meaning: fall

Same-root relatives case (noun / verb) · cascade (noun / verb) · occasionally (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

cas — fall

cata- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix catalyst (noun) · catastrophe (noun) · catalog (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cata- — thoroughly

catalyst (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Something that helps trigger or speed up a change or event.

Root & originlys — loosen Catalyst comes from catalysis, built from Greek kata and lysis, meaning a loosening. In chemistry it helps a reaction occur; its figurative meaning is something that brings change.

Same-root relativescatalysis · catalytic · catalyze

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The public controversy became a catalyst for a wider reform movement.

Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

caud (root)

Root

Meaning: tail

Same-root relatives caudal (adjective / adverb) · caudate (noun / adjective) · coward (noun)

Membean word-part reference

caud — tail

caust (root)

Root

Meaning: burnt, red hot

Same-root relatives holocaust (noun) · caustic (noun) · cauterize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

caust — burnt, red hot

caut (root)

Root

Meaning: beware of

Same-root relatives cautious (noun) · caution (noun / verb) · precaution (noun)

Membean word-part reference

caut — beware of

cav (root)

Root

Meaning: hollow

Same-root relatives concave (adjective) · excavation (noun) · cavity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cav — hollow

caval (root)

Root

Meaning: horse

Same-root relatives cavalry (noun) · cavalcade (noun) · cavalier (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

caval — horse

ced (root)

Root

Meaning: go, move

Same-root relatives procedure (noun) · precede (verb) · secede (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ced — go, move

ced (root)

Root

Meaning: yield

Same-root relatives concede (verb) · accede (verb) · cede (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ced — yield

ceed (root)

Root

Meaning: go, move

Root & origincede / ceed / cess — go or yield These forms come from Latin cedere, meaning to go, withdraw, or yield, and its related form cessus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives succeed (verb) · proceeds (noun) · proceed (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ceed — go, move

ceiv (root)

Root

Meaning: take

Same-root relatives receive (verb) · perceive (verb) · conceive (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ceiv — take

cel (root)

Root

Meaning: hide

Same-root relatives cell (noun) · cellar (noun) · cellulose (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cel — hide

celer (root)

Root

Meaning: swift, speedy

Same-root relatives accelerate (verb) · accelerator (noun) · celerity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

celer — swift, speedy

cens (root)

Root

Meaning: assessed, judged, rated

Same-root relatives census (noun / verb) · censorship (noun) · censure (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cens — assessed, judged, rated

cent (root)

Root

Meaning: hundred

Same-root relatives percent (noun) · century (noun) · percentage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cent — hundred

cent (root)

Root

Meaning: sing

Same-root relatives incentive (noun) · accent (noun / verb) · accentuate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cent — sing

centr (root)

Root

Meaning: center

Same-root relatives central (noun / adjective) · concentrated (adjective) · concentration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

centr — center

cept/ceive (root)

RootWord of the day

Related historical root forms connected to taking or receiving; they cannot normally stand alone as English words.

Root & origincapt / cept / ceive — take These forms trace back to Latin capere, meaning to take, and its related form captus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives receive (verb) · reception (noun) · accept (verb) · acceptance (noun) · exception (noun)

See it in context

In receive and reception, the related forms ceive and cept connect to taking something in.
John Punch received a lifetime sentence, while the two white runaways received additional years of service.
receive + -ed; ceive is the historical take/receive root in receive.
YPT 51

Ch. 1 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

cept — taken, seized

cern (root)

Root

Meaning: sift, perceive, decide

Same-root relatives concern (noun / verb) · discern (verb) · discernible (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cern — sift, perceive, decide

cert (root)

Root

Meaning: compete, strive, contend

Same-root relatives concerted (adjective) · concert (noun / verb) · concerto (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cert — compete, strive, contend

cert (root)

Root

Meaning: sure

Same-root relatives certain (adjective) · uncertain (adjective) · certify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cert — sure

cess (root)

Root

Meaning: go

Root & origincede / ceed / cess — go or yield These forms come from Latin cedere, meaning to go, withdraw, or yield, and its related form cessus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives successful (adjective) · access (noun / verb) · process (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cess — go

chain migration (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Migration in which an earlier migrant’s arrival and status help other family members follow.

Root & originmigr — move to a new place For word study, focus on migration. Migr comes from Latin migrare, meaning to move from one place to another.

Same-root relatives of migrationmigrate · migration · migrant · immigration · emigrate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes students who gained immigration status, then citizenship, and helped family members immigrate.
YPT 319

Ch. 16

chart (root)

Root

Meaning: sheet of paper

Same-root relatives charted (verb) · uncharted (adjective) · cartridge (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chart — sheet of paper

chas (root)

Root

Meaning: take, seize

Same-root relatives purchase (verb) · chase (noun / verb) · chassis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chas — take, seize

chast (root)

Root

Meaning: pure, without stain

Same-root relatives chastisement (noun) · chastity (noun) · chaste (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

chast — pure, without stain

chiev (root)

Root

Meaning: head

Same-root relatives achievement (noun) · achieve (verb) · overachiever (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chiev — head

Chinese Exclusion Act (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An 1882 U.S. law that suspended immigration of Chinese laborers and reinforced barriers to Chinese immigrants becoming citizens.

Root & originclude / clus — close For word study, focus on exclusion. Clude and clus come from Latin claudere, meaning to close, and its related form clausus.

Same-root relatives of exclusioninclude · inclusion · exclude · exclusion · conclude

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Chinese Exclusion Act shows how racial prejudice could become federal immigration policy.
The law was initially set for ten years, then renewed and extended.
YPT 153–154

Ch. 8

8 China

chol (root)

Root

Meaning: bile, gall

Same-root relatives melancholy (noun / adjective) · cholesterol (noun) · choler (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chol — bile, gall

chrom (root)

Root

Meaning: color

Same-root relatives chromium (noun) · chrome (noun / verb) · monochrome (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chrom — color

chron (root)

Root

Meaning: time

Same-root relatives chronic (adjective) · anachronism (noun) · chronicle (noun)

Membean word-part reference

chron — time

cid (root)

Root

Meaning: fall

Same-root relatives accident (noun) · incident (noun) · coincide (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cid — fall

cip (root)

Root

Meaning: take

Same-root relatives principle (noun) · emancipation (noun) · principal (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cip — take

ciph (root)

Root

Meaning: zero

Same-root relatives encipher (verb) · ciphering (verb) · decipher (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ciph — zero

circ (root)

Root

Meaning: ring

Same-root relatives circle (noun / verb) · circuit (noun / verb) · circular (noun)

Membean word-part reference

circ — ring

circum- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: around, about

Words sharing this prefix circumscribe (verb) · circumstances (noun) · circumference (noun)

Membean word-part reference

circum- — around, about

cis (root)

Root

Meaning: cut

Same-root relatives decision (noun) · precise (adjective) · decisive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cis — cut

cit (root)

Root

Meaning: moved, stirred up

Same-root relatives cite (verb) · excite (verb) · excitability (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cit — moved, stirred up

civ (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: citizen

Root & originciv — citizen Civ comes from Latin civis, meaning a citizen. Civilis meant relating to citizens or civic life.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives civil (adjective) · civilization (noun) · civilized (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

civ — citizen

civil (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Relating to citizens or public life, to nonmilitary matters, or to polite behavior, depending on context.

Root & originciv — citizen Civ comes from Latin civis, meaning a citizen. Civilis meant relating to citizens or civic life.

Same-root relativescivic · civilian · civility · civilization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

In the phrase civil authority, civil refers to civilian government rather than military command.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

civil disobedience (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Deliberate, public defiance of rules or official practices considered unjust.

Root & originaud — hear Obedience traces back to Latin oboedire, meaning to listen or obey, related to audire, meaning to hear. Its root changed spelling as the word passed through French.

Same-root relativesobey · obedience · obedient · disobey · disobedience

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes integrated freedom rides challenging segregation as civil disobedience.
YPT 305 YPT 307

Ch. 15

civil liberties (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Basic individual freedoms, such as speech, religion, and due process, that limit government interference.

Root & originliber — free For word study, focus on liberty. Liber comes from Latin liber, meaning free. It is a different Latin word from liber meaning book.

Same-root relatives of libertyliberty · liberate · liberation · liberal · illiberal

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The debate asks how wartime government actions affected civil liberties.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

clair (root)

Root

Meaning: clear, bright

Same-root relatives clairvoyance (noun) · clairvoyant (noun)

Membean word-part reference

clair — clear, bright

clam (root)

Root

Meaning: shout

Root & originclaim / clam — call out Claim and clam come from Latin clamare, meaning to call out.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives clamor (noun / verb) · exclamation (noun) · clamorous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

clam — shout

clar (root)

Root

Meaning: clear, bright

Same-root relatives declare (verb) · declaration (noun) · clarity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

clar — clear, bright

classify (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To place people or things into categories according to selected rules or features.

Root & originclass — group Classify is class plus -ify, make. Class comes from Latin classis, a division or group of citizens.

Same-root relativesclass · classification · reclassify

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Racial restrictions on naturalization required officials to classify immigrants before deciding whether they could become citizens.

clav (root)

Root

Meaning: key

Same-root relatives conclave (noun) · enclave (noun) · clavichord (noun)

Membean word-part reference

clav — key

clemenc (root)

Root

Meaning: mercy, mildness, calmness

Same-root relatives clemency (noun) · inclemency (noun) · clement (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

clemenc — mercy, mildness, calmness

clim (root)

Root

Meaning: sloping region; zone of the Earth; ladder

Same-root relatives climate (noun) · climax (noun / verb) · acclimatize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

clim — sloping region; zone of the Earth; ladder

clin (root)

Root

Meaning: lean

Same-root relatives decline (noun / verb) · clinical (adjective) · incline (noun)

Membean word-part reference

clin — lean

cliv (root)

Root

Meaning: slope, hill

Same-root relatives declivity (noun) · acclivity (noun) · proclivity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cliv — slope, hill

clud/clus (root)

RootWord of the day

Related historical root forms meaning close or shut; they help explain who is included and who is excluded.

Root & originclude / clus — close Clude and clus come from Latin claudere, meaning to close, and its related form clausus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives include (verb) · inclusive (adjective) · exclude (verb) · exclusion (noun) · conclude (verb)

See it in context

In exclude and exclusion, clud and clus help express the idea of shutting out.
The Chinese Exclusion Act restricted Chinese labor immigration and denied naturalization to Chinese immigrants.
ex- (out) + clus- (shut) + -ion; the root changes from clud in exclude to clus in exclusion.
YPT 153

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 17

Documents C

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

coc (root)

Root

Meaning: cook, ripen

Same-root relatives concoct (verb) · precocious (adjective) · concoction (noun)

Membean word-part reference

coc — cook, ripen

code talkers (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Military personnel who use a language-based system to transmit messages securely.

Root & origincod — book or written system Code came through French from Latin codex, a book or written set of laws. In code talkers, it refers to a system used to communicate information securely.

Same-root relativescode · coded · coding · encode · decode

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Navajo code talkers transmitted messages during fighting at Iwo Jima.
YPT 287–288

Ch. 14

coerce (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To make someone act through force, threats, or pressure that sharply limits their choice.

Root & originerc — restrain Coerce comes from Latin coercere, meaning to confine or restrain, related to arcere, to keep away or enclose.

Same-root relativescoercion · coercive · coercively

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

During Native removal, threats and military force could coerce communities into leaving land they did not freely agree to surrender.

cogn (root)

Root

Meaning: learn, know

Same-root relatives recognize (verb) · recognition (noun) · recognizable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cogn — learn, know

collective bargaining (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Negotiation between an employer and workers acting together, usually through a union, over pay, conditions, and other employment terms.

Root & originleg / lect — gather or read For word study, focus on collective. Leg and lect come from Latin legere, meaning to gather, choose, or read, and its related form lectus.

Same-root relatives of collectivecollect · select · elect · legible · collection

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Collective bargaining allowed workers to negotiate a contract as a group.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

com (root)

Root

Meaning: celebration, fun

Same-root relatives comic (noun / adjective) · comedienne (noun) · comical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

com — celebration, fun

com- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix commitment (noun) · complete (verb / adjective) · completely (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

com- — thoroughly

com- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: with, together

Words sharing this prefix competition (noun) · compare (verb) · committee (noun)

Membean word-part reference

com- — with, together

commitment (noun)

Word of the day

A firm promise or dedication to a goal, belief, or course of action.

Root & originmit / miss — send Mit and miss come from Latin mittere, meaning to send or let go, and its related form missus.

Same-root relativesmission · transmit · permission · admission · dismiss

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

commit + -ment

commit: pledge or devote · -ment: act or state

See it in context

The organizers showed their commitment by attending meetings for several months.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

commod (root)

Root

Meaning: suitable, convenient

Same-root relatives accommodate (verb) · commodity (noun) · accommodation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

commod — suitable, convenient

commun (root)

Root

Meaning: common, public, general

Same-root relatives community (noun) · communicate (verb) · communal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

commun — common, public, general

compadrazgo (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A godparent system connecting family and community through Catholic practice.

Root & originco / padre — together / father Compadrazgo is Spanish, built from compadre, a co-parent or godfather, plus -azgo, which names a relationship or status. Padre traces to Latin pater, father.

Same-root relativescompadre · padre (Spanish: father) · paternal

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster · Merriam-Webster

See it in context

Many Sikh–Mexican families raised their children within the Mexican mothers’ Catholic traditions.
YPT 245

Ch. 12

con- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix consider (verb) · concern (noun / verb) · conclusion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

con- — thoroughly

con- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: with, together

Words sharing this prefix condition (noun) · contribute (verb) · conflict (noun)

Membean word-part reference

con- — with, together

con-/com-/co-/col- (prefix)

PrefixWord of the day

Historical and modern forms connected to together or with. The spelling can change to fit the next sound.

Word-part origincon- / com- / co- / col- Latin com-, together or with, changed spelling to fit the next sound in many words. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix connect (verb) · construct (noun / verb) · cooperate (verb) · combine (noun / verb) · collect (noun / verb / adjective / adverb)

See it in context

The work of Chinese and Irish railroad builders connected the eastern and western coasts.
connect + -ed; con- contributes the historical sense of together.
YPT 22

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

concil (root)

Root

Meaning: join, win over

Same-root relatives reconcile (verb) · conciliate (verb) · conciliatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

concil — join, win over

cond (root)

Root

Meaning: hide, put away

Same-root relatives abscond (verb) · condiment (noun) · recondite (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cond — hide, put away

condition (noun)

Word of the day

A circumstance that shapes what happens, or a requirement that must be met.

Root & origindic — say Condition came through French from Latin condicio, an agreement or stated terms, related to dicere, meaning to say. The modern -tion spelling developed later.

Same-root relativesconditional · conditionally · precondition

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The paragraph explains how poor working conditions encouraged collective action.

Foundations

congru (root)

Root

Meaning: come together, agree

Same-root relatives congruence (noun) · congruent (adjective) · congruity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

congru — come together, agree

conn (root)

Root

Meaning: learn, know

Same-root relatives connoisseur (noun) · reconnoiter (verb) · connoisseurship (noun)

Membean word-part reference

conn — learn, know

consequence (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A result or outcome of an action or event, whether intended or unintended.

Root & originsequ — follow Consequence comes from Latin consequi, meaning to follow after, built on sequi, meaning to follow.

Same-root relativesconsequent · consequently · sequence · subsequent

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

One consequence of Bacon’s Rebellion was that Virginia’s wealthy planters turned more heavily to African slavery to protect their power.

(YPT 58–59)

consequently (adverb)

Word of the day

As a result of something stated earlier.

Root & originsequ — follow Consequence comes from Latin consequi, meaning to follow after, built on sequi, meaning to follow.

Same-root relativesconsequence · consequent · sequence · subsequent

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

consequent + -ly

consequent: following as a result · -ly: adverb-forming suffix

Use consequently to connect a cause with its result.

See it in context

The harvest failed; consequently, many families struggled to buy food.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

contra- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: opposite, against

Words sharing this prefix contrast (noun) · contrary (noun / adjective) · contradict (verb)

Membean word-part reference

contra- — opposite, against

contradiction (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A conflict between claims, principles, or actions that cannot fully agree with one another.

Root & origindict — say Dict comes from Latin dicere, meaning to say; dictus is a related form.

Same-root relativesdictate · predict · contradict · diction · dictionary

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer identifies a contradiction between a promise of equality and a discriminatory policy.

Ch. 5 Ch. 15

5 Slavery · 15 Calls for Change

cor- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix correct (verb / adjective) · corroborate (verb) · corrupt (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cor- — thoroughly

cord (root)

Root

Meaning: heart

Same-root relatives record (noun / verb) · according (adjective) · accord (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cord — heart

cori (root)

Root

Meaning: leather

Same-root relatives excoriate (verb) · scourge (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cori — leather

corn (root)

Root

Meaning: horn, point

Same-root relatives corner (noun / verb) · catercorner (adjective) · cornea (noun)

Membean word-part reference

corn — horn, point

corp (root)

Root

Meaning: body

Same-root relatives corps (noun) · corporation (noun) · corpse (noun)

Membean word-part reference

corp — body

cosm (root)

Root

Meaning: universe

Same-root relatives cosmic (adjective) · cosmos (noun) · microcosm (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cosm — universe

counter- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: opposite

Words sharing this prefix counteract (verb) · counterbalance (noun / verb) · counteroffensive (noun)

Membean word-part reference

counter- — opposite

coup (root)

Root

Meaning: buffet, cuff, blow

Same-root relatives coup (noun) · coupon (noun) · recoup (verb)

Membean word-part reference

coup — buffet, cuff, blow

cover (root)

Root

Meaning: cover

Same-root relatives discover (verb) · coverage (noun) · discovery (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cover — cover

crat (root)

Root

Meaning: rule

Same-root relatives democratic (adjective) · democrat (noun) · aristocrat (noun)

Membean word-part reference

crat — rule

cred (root)

Root

A bound Latin root connected to believing or trusting; credit depends historically on trust in repayment.

Root & origincred — believe or trust Cred comes from Latin credere, meaning to believe or trust. Credit originally involves trusting that someone will repay.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives credit (noun) · credible (adjective) · credibility (noun) · credential (noun) · incredible (adjective)

See it in context

Anglo landowners’ greater access to credit helped them dig wells and withstand drought.
credit is the whole modern base; cred is its historical trust/belief root.
YPT 136

Ch. 2 Ch. 7

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

cred — believe, trust

crep (root)

Root

Meaning: burst, crack

Same-root relatives discrepancy (noun) · decrepit (adjective) · decrepitude (noun)

Membean word-part reference

crep — burst, crack

cresc (root)

Root

Meaning: grow, arise, increase

Same-root relatives crescendo (noun / verb / adjective) · crescent (noun / adjective) · decrescendo (noun / verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cresc — grow, arise, increase

cret (root)

Root

Meaning: grow

Same-root relatives concrete (noun / verb / adjective) · accretion (noun) · accrete (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cret — grow

cret (root)

Root

Meaning: separate

Same-root relatives secretarial (adjective) · discrete (adjective) · secrete (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cret — separate

cret (root)

Root

Meaning: sift, discern, separate

Same-root relatives secretary (noun) · secret (noun / adjective) · discretion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cret — sift, discern, separate

crimin (root)

Root

Meaning: judgment

Same-root relatives discrimination (noun) · criminal (noun / adjective) · discriminate (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

crimin — judgment

crit (root)

Root

Meaning: judge

Same-root relatives critique (noun) · criticism (noun) · critical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

crit — judge

croc (root)

Root

Meaning: hook

Same-root relatives encroachment (noun) · encroach (verb)

Membean word-part reference

croc — hook

cruc (root)

Root

Meaning: cross

Same-root relatives crucial (adjective) · crucify (verb) · crucifix (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cruc — cross

cry (root)

Root

Meaning: shout out in complaint

Same-root relatives cry (noun / verb) · crying (noun / adjective) · decry (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cry — shout out in complaint

crypt (root)

Root

Meaning: hidden

Same-root relatives cryptic (adjective) · crypt (noun) · cryptogram (noun)

Membean word-part reference

crypt — hidden

culp (root)

Root

Meaning: fault, blame, guilt

Same-root relatives culprit (noun) · culpability (noun) · culpable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

culp — fault, blame, guilt

cult (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: grow

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives culture (noun) · agriculture (noun) · cultivate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cult — grow

cultivate (verb)

Word of the day

To prepare land and grow crops, or to develop a skill, relationship, or quality over time.

Same-root relativesculture · cultural · cultivation · agriculture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Farmers cultivated crops while organizers cultivated relationships across communities.

Documents A

culture (noun)

Word of the day

The learned beliefs, practices, values, and forms of expression shared and changed by a group.

Same-root relativescultural · cultivate · cultivation · agriculture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Letters and songs can reveal aspects of a community's culture.

Foundations

cum (root)

Root

Meaning: heap, pile

Same-root relatives accumulate (verb) · cumulative (adjective) · accumulation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cum — heap, pile

cumb (root)

Root

Meaning: lie down

Same-root relatives succumb (verb) · incumbency (noun) · incumbent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

cumb — lie down

cup (root)

Root

Meaning: take, seize

Same-root relatives occupied (adjective) · occupation (noun) · occupy (verb)

Membean word-part reference

cup — take, seize

cur (root)

Root

Meaning: worry, anxiety, attention

Same-root relatives secure (verb / adjective) · security (noun) · insecurity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cur — worry, anxiety, attention

curr (root)

Root

Meaning: run

Same-root relatives current (noun / adjective) · occurrence (noun) · currently (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

curr — run

curs (root)

Root

Meaning: ran, hurried

Same-root relatives cursory (adjective) · excursion (noun) · incursion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

curs — ran, hurried

cus (root)

Root

Meaning: reason

Same-root relatives accused (noun) · excuse (noun / verb) · accusation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cus — reason

cuss (root)

Root

Meaning: strike

Same-root relatives discussion (noun) · discuss (verb) · concussion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cuss — strike

custom (root)

Root

Meaning: become used to

Same-root relatives custom (noun) · customer (noun) · customary (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

custom — become used to

cycl (root)

Root

Meaning: circle, wheel

Same-root relatives cycle (noun) · cyclist (noun) · bicycle (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

cycl — circle, wheel

cyn (root)

Root

Meaning: dog

Same-root relatives cynical (adjective) · cynic (noun) · cynicism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

cyn — dog

dat (root)

Root

Meaning: give

Same-root relatives date (noun / verb) · data (noun) · datum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dat — give

Dawes Act (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An 1887 U.S. law that divided many Native nations' communally held lands into individual allotments and opened lands labeled surplus to non-Native acquisition.

Root & originact — do or drive Dawes is a surname in the law’s name; act means a law passed by a legislature. For word study, focus on act. Act comes from Latin agere, meaning to do or drive; actus is a related form.

Same-root relatives of actaction · active · react · enact · interact

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Dawes Act undermined communal landholding and contributed to Native land loss.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

de (root)

Root

Meaning: god

Same-root relatives deity (noun) · deification (noun) · deify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

de — god

de- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: off, from

Words sharing this prefix defoliate (verb / adjective) · decapitate (verb) · demote (verb)

Membean word-part reference

de- — off, from

de- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix demand (verb) · depict (verb) · declare (verb)

Membean word-part reference

de- — thoroughly

de- (prefix)

Prefix

Can mean away, down, remove, or reverse; the whole word determines the meaning.

Word-part originde- Latin de means down, from, or away. In English it can also mark removing or reversing something. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix deport (verb) · deportation (noun) · desegregate (verb) · dehumanize (verb) · deform (verb)

See it in context

Although he had been born in Utah, Piña was deported and later had to prove his United States citizenship.
deport + -ed; de- (away) + port (carry) explains the verb historically.
YPT 253

Ch. 6 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

deb (root)

Root

Meaning: owe, ought

Same-root relatives debt (noun) · indebted (adjective) · debenture (noun)

Membean word-part reference

deb — owe, ought

decim (root)

Root

Meaning: tenth

Same-root relatives decimal (noun / adjective) · decimate (verb) · decimation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

decim — tenth

decor (root)

Root

Meaning: suitable, graceful, proper

Same-root relatives decorate (verb) · decorative (adjective) · decorum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

decor — suitable, graceful, proper

defense industries (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Industries producing equipment and supplies for national military operations.

Root & originfend / fens — strike or defend Defense comes from Latin defendere, meaning to ward off, with the related form defensus. The root also appears in offend and offense.

Same-root relativesdefend · defense · defensive · offend · offense

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Shipyards and aircraft plants hired workers to meet wartime demand.
YPT 280 YPT 283 YPT 285

Ch. 14

degradation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The lowering of someone's dignity or status, or a decline in quality or condition.

Root & origingrad — step or degree Degradation comes from Latin gradus, meaning a step or rank. Degrade describes lowering someone or something in rank or condition.

Same-root relativesgrade · gradual · degrade · graduation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The account describes how degrading treatment worked to enforce a social hierarchy.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

dehumanize (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To treat or portray people as less than fully human or undeserving of human dignity.

Root & originhuman — human being Human comes from Latin humanus, meaning human, related to homo, meaning a human being.

Same-root relativeshumanity · humane · humanize · inhuman

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

de- + human + -ize

de-: remove or deprive of · human: having human qualities and dignity · -ize: make or treat in a particular way

See it in context

The propaganda tried to dehumanize a group to make mistreatment seem acceptable.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

del (root)

Root

Meaning: destroy, wipe out

Same-root relatives indelible (adjective) · delete (verb) · deleterious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

del — destroy, wipe out

dem (root)

Root

Meaning: people

Same-root relatives democracy (noun) · democratic (adjective) · epidemic (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dem — people

demn (root)

Root

Meaning: loss, penalty, injury

Same-root relatives condemn (verb) · condemnation (noun) · indemnify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

demn — loss, penalty, injury

demography (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The study of population patterns and changes.

Root & origindem — people Demography combines Greek demos, meaning people, with graphia, meaning writing or description. It describes populations through facts and patterns.

Same-root relativesdemographic · democracy · democrat

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Takaki uses demographic change as one reason to reconsider a narrow national story.
YPT 7–8
The author uses demographic change in a future-oriented argument about American diversity; the chapter’s forecast is not a current statistic.
YPT 340

Ch. 1 Ch. 17

demon (root)

Root

Meaning: spirit, divine power

Same-root relatives demonic (adjective) · demon (noun) · demoniacal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

demon — spirit, divine power

dens (root)

Root

Meaning: thick

Same-root relatives density (noun) · dense (adjective) · condensation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dens — thick

depict (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To represent or show something in words, images, or another form.

Root & originpict — paint or picture Depict comes from Latin depingere, meaning to portray, related to pingere, to paint, and its form pictus.

Same-root relativesdepiction · picture · pictorial · pictograph

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The painting depicts expansion as a journey toward a brighter future.

Ch. 4

4 Road

deris (root)

Root

Meaning: mocked, made fun of

Same-root relatives derision (noun) · derisive (adjective) · derisory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

deris — mocked, made fun of

dextr (root)

Root

Meaning: right

Same-root relatives dextrous (adjective) · ambidextrous (adjective) · ambidexterity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dextr — right

di (root)

Root

Meaning: day

Same-root relatives diary (noun) · dial (noun / verb) · sundial (noun)

Membean word-part reference

di — day

di- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: apart, not

Words sharing this prefix diverse (adjective) · dilapidated (adjective) · dilute (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

di- — apart, not

di- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix diminish (verb) · diminution (noun) · dissolution (noun)

Membean word-part reference

di- — thoroughly

di- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: two

Words sharing this prefix dilemma (noun) · diplomat (noun) · diplomatic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

di- — two

dia- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: through, across

Words sharing this prefix dialect (noun) · diameter (noun) · diarrhea (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dia- — through, across

dic (root)

Root

Meaning: say

Same-root relatives indicate (verb) · indication (noun) · indicator (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dic — say

dict (root)

Root

A bound Latin root connected to saying or declaring.

Root & origindict — say Dict comes from Latin dicere, meaning to say; dictus is a related form.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives predict (verb) · prediction (noun) · dictate (noun / verb) · contradict (verb) · dictionary (noun)

See it in context

José Maria Sanchez predicted that the American settlement at Austin would help ignite the loss of Texas.
pre- (before) + dict (say) + -ed, a historical analysis.
YPT 126

Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

dict — say

didact (root)

Root

Meaning: apt at teaching

Same-root relatives autodidact (noun) · didactic (adjective) · didacticism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

didact — apt at teaching

dif- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: apart, not, away from

Words sharing this prefix different (adjective) · difference (noun) · difficult (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dif- — apart, not, away from

dign (root)

Root

Meaning: worthy, deserving

Same-root relatives dignity (noun) · indignation (noun) · dignified (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dign — worthy, deserving

dis- (prefix)

Prefix

Can mean not, the opposite of, or removal; read the whole word to decide which meaning fits.

Word-part origindis- Latin dis- marks separation or being apart. In English it also marks opposition or reversal. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix dispossess (verb) · disagree (verb) · disobey (verb) · disapprove (verb) · distrust (noun / verb)

See it in context

The dispossessed Cherokee were forced away from their homeland and endured a deadly westward march.
dis- (deprive of) + possess + -ed.
YPT 76

Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

dis- — apart, not

discriminatory (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Treating people unfairly because of a group they belong to or are perceived to belong to.

Root & origincrimin — distinguish Discriminate comes from Latin discriminare, to distinguish, from discrimen, a distinction. Related forms connect to cernere, meaning to separate or discern.

Same-root relativesdiscriminate · discrimination · indiscriminate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Rules that denied housing to Black families because of race were discriminatory and limited where those families could live.

dispossess (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To take away someone's land, property, or other possessions.

Root & originpossess — hold or occupy Possess traces back to Latin possidere, meaning to occupy or hold. Dis- reverses possession: dispossess means to take possession away.

Same-root relativespossess · possession · possessive · dispossession

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

dis- + possess

dis-: deprive of · possess: own or hold

See it in context

The policy enabled newcomers to dispossess families who had lived there for generations.

Ch. 7 Ch. 9

7 Mexico · 9 Frontier

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

dispossessed (adjective / verb)

Chapter vocabulary

Deprived of land, a home, or other property.

Root & originpossess — hold or occupy Possess traces back to Latin possidere, meaning to occupy or hold. Dis- reverses possession: dispossess means to take possession away.

Same-root relativespossess · possession · possessive · dispossess · dispossession

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

dispossess + -ed

dispossess: deprive of land or property · -ed: past tense or participle

In dispossessed farmers, the participle functions as an adjective.

See it in context

The Cherokee forced westward were dispossessed of their homes and territory.
YPT 75–76

Ch. 4

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

dit (root)

Root

Meaning: give

Same-root relatives edition (noun) · editorial (noun / adjective) · additional (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dit — give

divid (root)

Root

Meaning: separate into parts

Same-root relatives individual (noun) · divide (noun / verb) · divided (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

divid — separate into parts

divide-and-control (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A strategy of maintaining power by encouraging divisions among people who might otherwise act together.

Root & origindivide — separate Divide comes from Latin dividere, meaning to separate or share out. Division and divide are related forms.

Same-root relativesdivide · division · divisible · undivided · subdivide

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The employer used divide-and-control by setting groups of workers against one another.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

divis (root)

Root

Meaning: separated into parts, divided

Same-root relatives division (noun) · subdivision (noun) · divisive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

divis — separated into parts, divided

doc (root)

Root

Meaning: teach

Same-root relatives undocumented (adjective) · doctor (noun / verb) · document (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

doc — teach

dol (root)

Root

Meaning: feel pain, grieve, suffer

Same-root relatives indolent (adjective) · doleful (adjective) · indolence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dol — feel pain, grieve, suffer

dom (root)

Root

Meaning: house

Same-root relatives domestic (noun / adjective) · dome (noun) · domesticate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

dom — house

domestic service (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Paid work caring for a household and its members.

Root & origindom — house Domestic comes from Latin domesticus, meaning belonging to the household, from domus, meaning house.

Same-root relativesdomestic · domesticate · domestication · domicile

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Irish women worked as maids, cooks, cleaners, and other household servants.
YPT 114–116

Ch. 6

domin (root)

RootWord of the day

A Latin root connected to mastery or control; it helps link dominate, dominance, and domination to the exercise of power over others.

Root & origindomin — master or rule Domin comes from Latin dominus, meaning master or lord, and dominari, meaning to rule.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Economic dependence can strengthen one group's domination over another.

Same-root relatives dominate (verb) · dominance (noun) · domination (noun) · dominant (adjective) · dominion (noun)

Course spelling: dom

Word-part references

Membean word-part reference

domin — master

dominance (noun)

Word of the day

A position of greater power or control over others.

Root & origindomin — master or rule Domin comes from Latin dominus, meaning master or lord, and dominari, meaning to rule.

Same-root relativesdominate · dominant · domination · dominion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer examines how a powerful group maintained its dominance.

Foundations

dominant (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Having the greatest power or influence in a situation.

Root & origindomin — master or rule Domin comes from Latin dominus, meaning master or lord, and dominari, meaning to rule.

Same-root relativesdominate · dominance · domination · dominion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

A dominant account of U.S. history can center European settlers while giving less attention to Native, Black, Asian, and Latino experiences.

domination (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The exercise of strong control or power over others.

Root & origindomin — master or rule Domin comes from Latin dominus, meaning master or lord, and dominari, meaning to rule.

Same-root relativesdominate · dominant · dominance · dominion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

dominate + -ion → domination

dominate: exercise control or power · -ion: action or state

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

The analysis connects economic dependence to political domination.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

don (root)

Root

Meaning: gift

Same-root relatives donate (verb) · donor (noun) · pardon (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

don — gift

dors (root)

Root

Meaning: back

Same-root relatives endorse (verb) · dorsal (adjective) · dorsum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dors — back

dot (root)

Root

Meaning: give

Same-root relatives anecdote (noun) · anecdotal (adjective) · sacerdotal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dot — give

Double V Campaign (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A World War II campaign calling for victory over fascism abroad and victory over racism at home.

Root & originvict — conquer The two V’s stood for victory against fascism abroad and racism at home. For word study, focus on victory. Victory comes from Latin victoria, from vincere, to conquer, and its related form victus.

Same-root relatives of victoryvictory · victorious · victor · invincible

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Double V Campaign connected participation in the war to demands for equal rights.
Black newspapers spread James G. Thompson’s call through articles, clubs, and pins.
YPT 293–296

Ch. 14 Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

dowry (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Money or property a bride's family transfers in connection with marriage.

Root & origindot — gift Dowry came through French from Latin dos, with the form dotis, meaning a marriage gift. Dower is another English form from this history.

Same-root relativesdowries · dower · endow · endowment

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Limited dowries and fewer men able to marry narrowed some Irish women's options at home.
YPT 114–115

Ch. 6

dox (root)

Root

Meaning: opinion

Same-root relatives orthodox (adjective) · paradox (noun) · unorthodox (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dox — opinion

dracon (root)

Root

Meaning: dragon, snake, serpent

Same-root relatives draconian (adjective) · dragon (noun) · dragoon (verb)

Membean word-part reference

dracon — dragon, snake, serpent

dramat (root)

Root

Meaning: play

Same-root relatives dramatic (adjective) · dramatize (verb) · dramatist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dramat — play

DREAM Act (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A proposed measure discussed here to provide a citizenship path for some people brought to the United States without authorization as children.

Root & originact — do or drive DREAM is an acronym in the proposal’s name, not the root of its legal meaning. For word study, focus on act. Act comes from Latin agere, meaning to do or drive; actus is a related form.

Same-root relatives of actaction · active · react · enact · interact

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Students publicly advocated for the proposal in the chapter’s account of 2011 activism.
YPT 334–336

Ch. 16

dress (root)

Root

Meaning: arrange

Same-root relatives address (noun) · redress (verb) · dressmaker (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dress — arrange

du- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: two

Words sharing this prefix dual (adjective) · duplicate (noun / verb / adjective) · duality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

du- — two

dubi (root)

Root

Meaning: doubt

Same-root relatives dubious (adjective) · indubitable (adjective) · dubiety (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dubi — doubt

duc/duct (root)

RootWord of the day

Related Latin roots connected to leading; the connection is historical in words such as education and production.

Root & originduce / duct — lead Duce and duct come from Latin ducere, meaning to lead, and its related form ductus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives educate (verb) · education (noun) · conduct (noun / verb) · produce (noun / verb) · production (noun)

See it in context

In conduct, duct helps express the idea of leading or guiding.
Multicultural education gives students a fuller account of the groups whose experiences shaped American history.
educate + -ion → education; duc is a historical root connected to leading.
YPT 8

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

dur (root)

Root

Meaning: hard, harsh

Same-root relatives endure (verb) · duration (noun) · endurance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

dur — hard, harsh

dyn (root)

Root

Meaning: power

Same-root relatives dynamic (noun) · dynamite (noun / verb) · aerodynamic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

dyn — power

e (root)

Root

Meaning: used for spelling and pronunciation

Same-root relatives state (noun) · hope (noun / verb) · rate (noun / verb)

These examples use a final silent e as part of their spelling.

Membean word-part reference

e — used for spelling and pronunciation

e- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: out of, from

Words sharing this prefix elite (noun) · event (noun) · eliminate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

e- — out of, from

e- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix evidence (noun / verb) · elude (verb) · espouse (verb)

Membean word-part reference

e- — thoroughly

ec (root)

Root

Meaning: house

Same-root relatives economic (adjective) · economy (noun) · ecology (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ec — house

ec- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: out of, from

Words sharing this prefix eccentric (adjective) · ecstasy (noun) · eclipse (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

ec- — out of, from

economic independence (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The ability to support oneself or make economic choices without being controlled by another person or institution.

Root & origineco / nom — household / management Economic traces back to Greek oikos, meaning household, and nomos, connected with managing or arranging. Economy first concerned managing a household.

Same-root relativeseconomy · economic · economics · economical · economist

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Owning productive land could increase a family's economic independence.

Ch. 6

6 Irish

ed (root)

Root

Meaning: temple, house

Same-root relatives edifice (noun) · edify (verb) · edifying (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ed — temple, house

ef- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: out of, from

Words sharing this prefix efface (verb) · effete (adjective) · effluvium (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ef- — out of, from

ef- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix effect (noun) · efficacious (adjective) · effervescent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ef- — thoroughly

effect (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A change or result produced by a cause.

Root & originfact / fect — do or make Fact and fect come from Latin facere, meaning to do or make, and its related form factus.

Same-root relativesfactory · factor · effective · manufacture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

One effect of lengthening servants’ contracts was to keep workers from claiming land and competing with wealthy tobacco planters.

(YPT 53)

effic (root)

Root

Meaning: bring about, accomplish

Same-root relatives efficient (adjective) · efficiency (noun) · efficacy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

effic — bring about, accomplish

eg (root)

Root

Meaning: lead

Same-root relatives strategist (noun) · exegesis (noun) · exegetical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

eg — lead

ego (root)

Root

Meaning: I

Same-root relatives ego (noun) · egotist (noun) · egotism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ego — I

egor (root)

Root

Meaning: assembly

Same-root relatives category (noun) · allegory (noun) · categorize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

egor — assembly

El Norte (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The North: migrants’ name for the United States as a destination.

Root & originnorte — north El Norte is Spanish for the North: el means the and norte means north. Norte is related to the Germanic word that also gave English north.

Words sharing the north rootnorte (Spanish: north) · norteño (Spanish: northern) · north · northern

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Letters and return visits spread hopes about work and opportunity in El Norte.
YPT 238

Ch. 12

element (root)

Root

Meaning: beginning

Same-root relatives element (noun) · elementary (adjective) · elemental (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

element — beginning

elite (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A small group with unusually great power, wealth, status, or influence.

Root & originlect — choose Elite came from French élite, meaning a selection, ultimately from Latin eligere, meaning to choose. Its spelling hides the connection with elect.

Same-root relativeselitism · elitist · elect · election

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 1 Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Virginia’s landowning elite controlled the legislature and used it to keep indentured servants working for longer terms.

(YPT 53)

em- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: in, on

Words sharing this prefix employ (noun / verb) · emphasis (noun) · empathy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

em- — in, on

empt (root)

Root

Meaning: buy

Same-root relatives exemption (noun) · exempt (verb / adjective) · peremptory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

empt — buy

en- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: in, on

Words sharing this prefix encourage (verb) · energy (noun) · endure (verb)

Membean word-part reference

en- — in, on

enn (root)

Root

Meaning: year

Same-root relatives millennium (noun) · perennial (adjective) · centennial (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

enn — year

ep- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: around, near

Words sharing this prefix epoch (noun) · ephemeral (noun / adjective) · eponymous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ep- — around, near

epi- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: upon, over

Words sharing this prefix epidemic (noun / adjective) · episode (noun) · epitomize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

epi- — upon, over

equ (root)

Root

Meaning: equal

Root & originequ — equal or level Equ comes from Latin aequus, meaning equal, level, or fair.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives equal (noun / verb / adjective) · equality (noun) · inequality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

equ — equal

equi- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: equal

Words sharing this prefix equivalent (noun / adjective) · equilibrium (noun) · equivocal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

equi- — equal

erg (root)

Root

Meaning: work

Same-root relatives energy (noun) · energized (verb) · synergistic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

erg — work

erosion (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The wearing away or movement of soil and other surface material.

Root & originrod / ros — gnaw Erosion traces back to Latin erodere, meaning to gnaw away, built on rodere, to gnaw. Erosus is a related form.

Same-root relativeserode · erosive · corrode · corrosion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Officials blamed Navajo livestock for erosion; the chapter later emphasizes the role of drought cycles in this case.
YPT 179 YPT 181 YPT 183

Ch. 9

err (root)

Root

Meaning: wander, make a mistake

Same-root relatives error (noun) · err (verb) · aberrant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

err — wander, make a mistake

es (root)

Root

Meaning: eat

Same-root relatives comestible (noun) · obese (adjective) · obesity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

es — eat

ess (root)

Root

Meaning: be

Same-root relatives essential (noun / adjective) · prowess (noun) · essence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ess — be

est (root)

Root

Meaning: be

Same-root relatives interest (noun / verb) · interested (adjective) · disinterested (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

est — be

estim (root)

Root

Meaning: fix the value of

Same-root relatives estimate (verb) · underestimate (noun / verb) · overestimate (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

estim — fix the value of

ethnicity (noun)

Word of the day

A shared cultural heritage, which may include ancestry, language, traditions, or a common history.

Root & originethn — people Ethn comes from Greek ethnos, meaning a people or nation.

Same-root relativesethnic · multiethnic · ethnography · ethnology

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

ethnic + -ity

ethnic: related to shared cultural background · -ity: state or quality

See it in context

People who share an ethnicity may practice different religions and hold different political views.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

etymology (noun)

Word of the day

The history of a word's origins and changes in form or meaning.

Root & originetym — true meaning Etymology combines Greek etymon, meaning the true sense of a word, with logia, meaning study. Today it means studying word histories.

Same-root relativesetymological · etymologist · etymon

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Studying a word's etymology can explain how its meaning developed.

Foundations

eu- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: well

Words sharing this prefix euphemism (noun) · euphoria (noun) · euphoric (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

eu- — well

euphemism (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A mild or indirect expression used in place of one that may sound harsh, disturbing, or embarrassing.

Root & origineu / phem — good / speaking Euphemism combines Greek eu, meaning good or well, with a form connected to speaking. It names a milder expression used in place of a harsh one.

Same-root relativeseuphemistic · euphemistically · euphemize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Calling forced confinement a temporary relocation can function as a euphemism.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

ev (root)

Root

Meaning: time

Same-root relatives medieval (adjective) · primeval (adjective) · longevity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ev — time

ex- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: out of, from

Words sharing this prefix exclusion (noun) · explore (verb) · exploit (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ex- — out of, from

ex- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix exacerbate (verb) · extenuate (verb) · exasperate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ex- — thoroughly

exclusion (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The act or practice of keeping someone out of a place, group, opportunity, or right.

Root & originclude / clus — close Clude and clus come from Latin claudere, meaning to close, and its related form clausus.

Same-root relativesinclude · inclusion · exclude · conclude

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

exclus- + -ion

exclus-: stem related to exclude, shut out · -ion: action or state

The verb exclude changes its stem to exclus- before -ion; it is not spelled excludeion.

See it in context

Legal exclusion prevented some workers from accessing opportunities available to others.

Ch. 8

8 China

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

exclusionary (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Designed or used to keep certain people out of a place, group, opportunity, or right.

Root & originclude / clus — close Clude and clus come from Latin claudere, meaning to close, and its related form clausus.

Same-root relativesinclude · inclusion · exclude · exclusion · conclude

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Chinese Exclusion Act created an exclusionary immigration policy by singling out Chinese laborers for a ban on entry.

Executive Order 8802 (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

President Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1941 order prohibiting employment discrimination in defense industries and federal government on grounds of race, creed, color, or national origin.

Root & originsequ — follow The number identifies an order; executive describes the authority carrying it out. For word study, focus on executive. Executive comes from Latin exsequi, meaning to follow through or carry out. It shares the root sequi, to follow, with sequence.

Same-root relatives of executiveexecute · execution · executive · executor · sequence

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Executive Order 8802 created a basis for challenging discriminatory hiring in defense work.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

Executive Order 9066 (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

President Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1942 order authorizing military exclusion from designated areas; it enabled the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans.

Same-root relatives of executiveexecute · execution · executive · executor · sequence

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay traces how Executive Order 9066 gave military authorities power that transformed civilian lives.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

exempl (root)

Root

Meaning: example

Same-root relatives exemplify (verb) · exemplary (adjective) · sampling (noun)

Membean word-part reference

exempl — example

exig (root)

Root

Meaning: enforce, demand

Same-root relatives exigency (noun) · exigent (adjective) · exiguity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

exig — enforce, demand

exile (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Forced or compelled absence from one's home or country, often for political reasons; also a person living in that condition.

Root & originexile — banishment Exile comes through French from Latin exilium, meaning banishment. The deeper origin is uncertain, so ex + isle is not a sound word sum.

Same-root relativesexiled · exiling · exiles

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer continued to campaign for change while living in exile.

Ch. 11

11 Russian Jews

exo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: outside

Words sharing this prefix exotic (adjective) · exogamy (noun) · exoskeleton (noun)

Membean word-part reference

exo- — outside

expect (root)

Root

Meaning: wait for

Same-root relatives expected (adjective) · expect (verb) · expectation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

expect — wait for

exper (root)

Root

Meaning: try, test

Same-root relatives experience (noun / verb) · experiment (verb) · expert (noun)

Membean word-part reference

exper — try, test

exploit (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To use people, their work, or their resources unfairly for your own benefit.

Root & originplic — fold Exploit came through French from Latin explicare, to unfold, with plicare meaning to fold. Its meaning changed from carrying something out to making use of it.

Same-root relativesexploitation · exploitative · exploiter

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

A plantation owner could exploit enslaved workers by forcing them to produce crops while taking the income from their labor.

exploitation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Taking unfair advantage of people, their labor, or their resources for someone else's benefit.

Root & originplic — fold Exploit came through French from Latin explicare, to unfold, with plicare meaning to fold. Its meaning changed from carrying something out to making use of it.

Same-root relativesexploit · exploitative · exploiter

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

exploit + -ation

exploit: take unfair advantage of · -ation: process or practice

See it in context

The essay explains how low wages and restricted choices enabled exploitation.
Workers from different backgrounds shared exploitation by employers and sometimes organized together.
YPT 18

Ch. 1 Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

extra- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: outside

Words sharing this prefix extraordinary (adjective) · extravagant (adjective) · extraneous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

extra- — outside

extrem (root)

Root

Meaning: end, edge

Same-root relatives extremely (adverb) · extreme (noun / adjective) · extremity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

extrem — end, edge

fab (root)

Root

Meaning: talk

Same-root relatives fabulous (adjective) · fabled (adjective) · ineffable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fab — talk

fac/fact (root)

RootWord of the day

Related historical roots connected to making or doing, useful for recognizing words about production.

Root & originfact / fect — do or make Fact and fect come from Latin facere, meaning to do or make, and its related form factus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives factory (noun) · manufacture (noun / verb) · factor (noun) · artifact (noun)

See it in context

The root fact in factory connects the word to a place where things are made.
James G. Thompson worked in the cafeteria of a factory that manufactured military aircraft.
manufacture + -ed; the fact in manufacture is historically connected to making.
YPT 293

Ch. 1 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

facil (root)

Root

Meaning: easy, easily accomplished

Same-root relatives facility (noun) · facilitate (verb) · facile (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

facil — easy, easily accomplished

factor (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A condition or influence that helps produce a result.

Root & originfact / fect — do or make Fact and fect come from Latin facere, meaning to do or make, and its related form factus.

Same-root relativesfactory · effect · effective · manufacture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Fear of another uprising by armed white workers was one factor in Virginia planters’ decision to rely more heavily on enslaved African workers.

(YPT 58–59)

factory (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A building or group of buildings where workers and machinery manufacture goods.

Root & originfact / fect — do or make Fact and fect come from Latin facere, meaning to do or make, and its related form factus.

Same-root relativesfactor · effect · effective · manufacture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3 Ch. 11

3 Origins · 11 Russian Jews

See it in context

A factory makes goods, while a tobacco plantation grows a crop; in colonial Virginia, both Black and white indentured servants did exhausting plantation work.

(YPT 50)

fall (root)

Root

Meaning: trick, deceive, be in error

Same-root relatives infallible (adjective) · fallacious (adjective) · fallacy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fall — trick, deceive, be in error

fam (root)

Root

Meaning: reputation

Same-root relatives famed (adjective) · infamous (adjective) · defamatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fam — reputation

famil (root)

Root

Meaning: household, familiar group

Same-root relatives family (noun) · familiar (adjective) · unfamiliar (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

famil — household, familiar group

fan (root)

Root

Meaning: temple

Same-root relatives fanatic (noun / adjective) · fanaticism (noun) · profane (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fan — temple

fascism (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A political viewpoint that defines the nation around a dominant culture and ancestry and treats outsiders as inferior.

Root & originfasc — bundle Fascism comes through Italian fascismo and fascio, meaning a bundle or political group, from Latin fascis, meaning a bundle.

Same-root relativesfascist · antifascist · fasces

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter connects Nazi racial hierarchy to fascism.
YPT 273–274

Ch. 14

fat (root)

Root

Meaning: speak, talk, say

Same-root relatives fate (noun / verb) · fatal (adjective) · fatalistic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fat — speak, talk, say

fatig (root)

Root

Meaning: weary, tire

Same-root relatives fatigue (noun / verb) · indefatigable (adjective) · fatiguing (verb)

Membean word-part reference

fatig — weary, tire

fatu (root)

Root

Meaning: foolish, silly, stupid

Same-root relatives infatuation (noun) · fatuity (noun) · fatuous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fatu — foolish, silly, stupid

fav (root)

Root

Meaning: like, support

Same-root relatives favor (noun / verb) · favored (adjective) · favors (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fav — like, support

feas (root)

Root

Meaning: make, do

Same-root relatives feasible (adjective) · feasibility (noun) · indefeasible (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

feas — make, do

feat (root)

Root

Meaning: made

Same-root relatives defeat (noun / verb) · feature (noun) · featured (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

feat — made

febr (root)

Root

Meaning: fever

Same-root relatives febrile (adjective) · fever (noun) · feverish (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

febr — fever

fect (root)

Root

Meaning: make

Root & originfact / fect — do or make Fact and fect come from Latin facere, meaning to do or make, and its related form factus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives affection (noun) · defect (noun / verb) · perfect (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fect — make

feit (root)

Root

Meaning: made, done

Same-root relatives forfeit (noun / verb / adjective) · surfeit (noun / verb) · counterfeit (noun / verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

feit — made, done

felic (root)

Root

Meaning: happy, lucky

Same-root relatives felicitate (verb) · felicity (noun) · felicitations (noun)

Membean word-part reference

felic — happy, lucky

fend (root)

Root

Meaning: ward off

Same-root relatives defend (verb) · defender (noun) · defendant (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fend — ward off

fer (root)

Root

Meaning: carry, bring, bear

Root & originfer — carry or bring Fer comes from Latin ferre, meaning to carry or bring. In this family, carrying also describes transferring ideas.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives difference (noun) · offer (noun / verb) · transfer (verb)

Membean word-part reference

fer — carry, bring, bear

fer (root)

Root

Meaning: wild

Same-root relatives ferocious (adjective) · ferocity (noun) · feral (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fer — wild

ferv (root)

Root

Meaning: boil, be hot

Same-root relatives fervent (adjective) · fervor (noun) · effervesce (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ferv — boil, be hot

fest (root)

Root

Meaning: feast, holidays

Same-root relatives festival (noun) · festivity (noun) · festive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fest — feast, holidays

fet (root)

Root

Meaning: pregnancy

Same-root relatives effete (adjective) · fetal (adjective) · fetus (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fet — pregnancy

fic (root)

Root

Meaning: make, do

Same-root relatives justification (noun) · pacific (noun / adjective) · office (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fic — make, do

fict (root)

Root

Meaning: pretend, invent

Same-root relatives fiction (noun) · fictional (adjective) · nonfiction (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fict — pretend, invent

fid (root)

Root

Meaning: trust, faith

Same-root relatives confide (verb) · confident (adjective) · confidant (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fid — trust, faith

fig (root)

Root

Meaning: shape

Same-root relatives effigy (noun) · prefigure (verb) · feign (verb)

Membean word-part reference

fig — shape

figur (root)

Root

Meaning: form, shape

Same-root relatives figure (noun / verb) · figurative (adjective) · configuration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

figur — form, shape

fili (root)

Root

Meaning: daughter, son

Same-root relatives affiliation (noun) · filial (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fili — daughter, son

fin (root)

Root

Meaning: end, form a boundary

Root & originfin — end or boundary Fin comes from Latin finis, meaning an end or boundary. Define originally involved setting limits.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives finally (adverb) · definition (noun) · confinement (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fin — end, form a boundary

firm (root)

Root

Meaning: stable

Same-root relatives confirm (verb) · reaffirm (verb) · confirmation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

firm — stable

fiss (root)

Root

Meaning: split

Same-root relatives fissile (adjective) · fission (noun) · fissionable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fiss — split

fit (root)

Root

Meaning: make, do

Same-root relatives profitable (adjective) · profit (noun) · benefit (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fit — make, do

fix (root)

Root

Meaning: fastened, nailed, secured

Same-root relatives fix (noun / verb) · affix (noun / verb) · suffix (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

fix — fastened, nailed, secured

flagr (root)

Root

Meaning: burn

Same-root relatives conflagration (noun) · flagrant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

flagr — burn

flam (root)

Root

Meaning: flame

Same-root relatives flame (noun / verb) · aflame (adjective) · inflame (verb)

Membean word-part reference

flam — flame

flat (root)

Root

Meaning: blow

Same-root relatives inflate (verb) · inflation (noun) · afflatus (noun)

Membean word-part reference

flat — blow

flect (root)

Root

Meaning: bent

Same-root relatives reflect (verb) · reflection (noun) · reflector (noun)

Membean word-part reference

flect — bent

flict (root)

Root

Meaning: struck, struck down

Same-root relatives conflict (noun) · inflict (verb) · conflicting (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

flict — struck, struck down

flor (root)

Root

Meaning: flower

Same-root relatives florist (noun) · floral (adjective) · florid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

flor — flower

flu (root)

Root

Meaning: flow, stream, glide

Same-root relatives fluid (noun) · fluent (adjective) · fluency (noun)

Membean word-part reference

flu — flow, stream, glide

foc (root)

Root

Meaning: hearth, fireplace

Same-root relatives focus (noun) · focused (adjective) · focal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

foc — hearth, fireplace

foli (root)

Root

Meaning: leaf

Same-root relatives foliage (noun) · portfolio (noun) · defoliate (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

foli — leaf

fong (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An association of people linked by family or home village in the chapter's account.

Root & originfong — borrowed community term The chapter uses the Chinese term fong for an association. Without a securely identified original written form, its English spelling does not establish a deeper root. Learn the borrowed base and its English plural.

Forms of the borrowed wordfongs

Word-history source

Word history: Course reading

See it in context

Fongs helped Chinese newcomers find housing and jobs and supported community life.
YPT 159

Ch. 8

for (root)

Root

Meaning: outside

Same-root relatives foreign (adjective) · foreigner (noun) · forest (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

for — outside

form (root)

RootWord of the day

A free base meaning shape or arrangement; unlike a bound root, form can also stand alone as a noun or verb.

Root & originform — shape Form comes from Latin forma, meaning a shape or pattern. The family also describes shaping ideas and behavior.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives form (noun / verb) · formation (noun) · transform (verb) · reform (noun / verb) · uniform (noun / verb / adjective)

See it in context

In transform, the root form helps express a change in shape or character.
As Vietnamese newcomers adapted to American life, their identities were transformed into Vietnamese American identities.
trans- (across/change) + form + -ed.
YPT 324

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

form — shape

fort (root)

Root

Meaning: strong, vigorous, powerful

Same-root relatives effort (noun) · comfort (noun / verb) · comfortable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fort — strong, vigorous, powerful

fortun (root)

Root

Meaning: luck, chance

Same-root relatives fortune (noun) · fortunate (adjective) · misfortune (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fortun — luck, chance

found (root)

Root

Meaning: pour, pour out, spread out

Same-root relatives confound (verb) · confounded (adjective) · dumbfound (verb)

Membean word-part reference

found — pour, pour out, spread out

fract (root)

Root

Meaning: broken, crushed

Same-root relatives fraction (noun / verb) · fractional (adjective) · fracture (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fract — broken, crushed

frag (root)

Root

Meaning: break, crush

Same-root relatives fragment (noun) · fragile (adjective) · fragmentation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

frag — break, crush

freedmen (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The chapter’s historical term for formerly enslaved people after emancipation.

Root & originfree — not bound Free is inherited from Old English freo. English combines this base with endings and other words to describe freedom or people who have it.

Same-root relativesfree · freedom · freed · unfree · freeman

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Freedmen sought schools, voting rights, and land to support their families.
YPT 97

Ch. 5

freeman (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person no longer bound as a servant or enslaved.

Root & originfree — not bound Free is inherited from Old English freo. English combines this base with endings and other words to describe freedom or people who have it.

Same-root relativesfree · freedom · freed · unfree

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Former servants hoped to become freemen and establish tobacco farms, but land concentration restricted their opportunities.
YPT 53

Ch. 3

frequent (root)

Root

Meaning: repeated, constant

Same-root relatives frequently (adverb) · frequent (verb / adjective) · infrequent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

frequent — repeated, constant

front (root)

Root

Meaning: forehead, foremost part

Same-root relatives frontier (noun) · front (noun / verb / adjective) · confront (verb)

Membean word-part reference

front — forehead, foremost part

frontier (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A border region where peoples or political powers meet and contest control; in U.S. history, the term often reflects the perspective of expanding settlers.

Root & originfront — forehead or forward part Frontier came through French from front, meaning the front of something, ultimately from Latin frons, meaning forehead or front.

Same-root relativesfront · frontal · confront · confrontation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Calling the region a frontier does not mean it was empty before settlers arrived.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

fruit (root)

Root

Meaning: fruit, enjoyment

Same-root relatives fruit (noun / verb) · fruitless (adjective) · fruitful (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fruit — fruit, enjoyment

fug (root)

Root

Meaning: flee

Same-root relatives refugee (noun) · fugitive (noun / adjective) · subterfuge (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fug — flee

fulg (root)

Root

Meaning: shine, flash

Same-root relatives effulgence (noun) · effulgent (adjective) · refulgent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

fulg — shine, flash

funct (root)

Root

Meaning: perform, complete

Same-root relatives function (noun) · functional (adjective) · perfunctory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

funct — perform, complete

fund (root)

Root

Meaning: bottom, depths, basis

Same-root relatives fundamental (noun) · profundity (noun) · fundraiser (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fund — bottom, depths, basis

fur (root)

Root

Meaning: rage, be mad

Same-root relatives fury (noun) · furious (adjective) · furor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

fur — rage, be mad

fus (root)

Root

Meaning: pour

Same-root relatives refuse (noun / verb) · confusion (noun) · confuse (verb)

Membean word-part reference

fus — pour

fut (root)

Root

Meaning: check, restrain

Same-root relatives refute (verb) · confutation (noun) · confute (verb)

Membean word-part reference

fut — check, restrain

Gam Saan (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Gold Mountain, a Chinese name for California in the chapter.

Root & origingam / saan — gold / mountain Gam Saan is Cantonese for Gold Mountain: gam means gold and saan means mountain. Here it names California; Mandarin Jinshan represents the same written words in another Chinese language.

Parts and related Chinese formsgam (Cantonese: gold) · saan (Cantonese: mountain) · Jinshan (Mandarin: Gold Mountain)

Word-history source

Word history: Course reading

See it in context

News of the Gold Rush helped make Gam Saan a destination for people seeking new opportunities.
YPT 147

Ch. 8

ge (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: earth

Same-root relatives geography (noun) · geographical (adjective) · geological (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ge — earth

geist (root)

Root

Meaning: spirit

Same-root relatives poltergeist (noun) · zeitgeist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

geist — spirit

gel (root)

Root

Meaning: freeze

Same-root relatives gel (noun / verb) · gelatin (noun) · gelatinous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

gel — freeze

gen (root)

Root

Meaning: born, produced

Same-root relatives genocide (noun) · generation (noun) · generous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

gen — born, produced

gen (root)

Root

Meaning: kind, type, class

Same-root relatives general (noun / verb / adjective) · homogeneous (adjective) · engender (verb)

Membean word-part reference

gen — kind, type, class

geni (root)

Root

Meaning: innate quality, inborn talent

Same-root relatives genius (noun) · genial (adjective) · genie (noun)

Membean word-part reference

geni — innate quality, inborn talent

genocide (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An organized effort to destroy a particular people.

Root & origingen / cide — people / killing Genocide combines Greek genos, meaning a people or kind, with -cide, from Latin caedere, meaning to kill. It names the deliberate destruction of a group.

Relatives sharing gen- or -cidegenocidal · genus (gen-) · homicide (-cide)

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter identifies the Nazi mass murder of Jews as genocide and the Holocaust.
YPT 289–291

Ch. 14

gent (root)

Root

Meaning: family

Same-root relatives gentleman (noun) · gentry (noun) · gent (noun)

Membean word-part reference

gent — family

geographic (adjective)

Word of the day

Relating to the location, features, or human use of places on Earth.

Root & origingeo — earth Geo comes from Greek ge, meaning earth. Geography combines it with graphia, meaning description or writing.

Same-root relativesgeography · geology · geographer · geopolitical

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

geograph- + -ic

geograph-: stem related to geography, the study of places and Earth · -ic: related to

The noun geography and adjective geographic use different endings.

See it in context

The author explains how geographic barriers shaped travel and settlement.

Documents A

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

geography (noun)

Word of the day

The study of places, environments, and the relationships between people and the Earth's surface.

Root & origingeo — earth Geo comes from Greek ge, meaning earth. Geography combines it with graphia, meaning description or writing.

Same-root relativesgeographic · geology · geographer · geopolitical

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Geography helps explain how rivers influenced trade routes.

Documents A

ger (root)

Root

Meaning: bear, bring, carry

Same-root relatives belligerent (noun) · belligerence (noun) · congeries (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ger — bear, bring, carry

germ (root)

Root

Meaning: bud, embryo

Same-root relatives germ (noun) · germinate (verb) · germination (noun)

Membean word-part reference

germ — bud, embryo

gest (root)

Root

Meaning: bear carry

Same-root relatives suggest (verb) · congestion (noun) · gesture (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

gest — bear carry

Ghost Dance (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A religious ceremony associated here with Wovoka's vision of renewal for Native peoples.

Root & originghost — spirit Ghost Dance is the name of a religious movement. For word study, ghost comes from Old English gast, meaning spirit. The name alone does not explain the movement’s beliefs.

Same-root relatives of ghostghost · ghostly · ghostlike

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Its spread on Sioux reservations alarmed officials before the arrests and military actions described at Wounded Knee.
YPT 168–169

Ch. 9

GI Forum (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A Mexican American civil rights organization founded by veterans after World War II.

Root & originforum — public meeting place Forum comes from Latin forum, a public place for markets and discussion. The GI Forum’s name presents the organization as a place for veterans’ collective voice.

Same-root relativesforum · forums · fora

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Members challenged job discrimination and called for bilingual education.
YPT 301

Ch. 15

gigant (root)

Root

Meaning: giant

Same-root relatives giant (noun / adjective) · gigantic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

gigant — giant

glomerat (root)

Root

Meaning: gathered into a ball-shaped mass

Same-root relatives agglomerate (noun / verb / adjective) · conglomerate (noun) · conglomeration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

glomerat — gathered into a ball-shaped mass

glori (root)

Root

Meaning: praise

Same-root relatives glorious (adjective) · glorify (verb) · inglorious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

glori — praise

gloss (root)

Root

Meaning: tongue, language

Same-root relatives glossary (noun) · gloss (verb)

Membean word-part reference

gloss — tongue, language

glut (root)

Root

Meaning: swallow, gulp down

Same-root relatives glut (noun) · glutton (noun) · gluttonous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

glut — swallow, gulp down

gnost (root)

Root

Meaning: know

Same-root relatives diagnostic (adjective) · agnostic (noun) · gnostic (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

gnost — know

gorg (root)

Root

Meaning: throat

Same-root relatives gorge (noun / verb) · engorge (verb) · regurgitate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

gorg — throat

grad (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: step

Same-root relatives degradation (noun) · grade (noun / verb) · graduate (noun / verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

grad — step

gram (root)

Root

Meaning: line, stroke of a pen, letter

Same-root relatives program (noun / verb) · diagram (noun / verb) · grammatical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

gram — line, stroke of a pen, letter

gran (root)

Root

Meaning: grain

Same-root relatives granular (adjective) · granite (noun) · granary (noun)

Membean word-part reference

gran — grain

grand (root)

Root

Meaning: great, lofty, powerful

Same-root relatives grand (noun / adjective) · grandson (noun) · grandfather (noun)

Membean word-part reference

grand — great, lofty, powerful

graph (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: write

Root & origingraph — write Paragraph combines Greek para, beside, with graphein, to write. A paragraphos was a written mark beside text that indicated a division.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives geography (noun) · photograph (noun / verb) · autobiography (noun)

Membean word-part reference

graph — write

grat (root)

Root

Meaning: pleasing, welcome

Same-root relatives grateful (adjective) · congratulate (verb) · gratification (noun)

Membean word-part reference

grat — pleasing, welcome

grav (root)

Root

Meaning: heavy, serious, burdened

Same-root relatives grave (noun / verb / adjective) · aggravate (verb) · gravity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

grav — heavy, serious, burdened

Great Depression (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and lasted through much of the 1930s, bringing widespread unemployment and hardship.

Root & originpress — press Press comes from Latin premere, meaning to press; pressus is a related form. Pressure can be physical or social.

Same-root relativespressure · oppression · repression · expression · compression

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay examines how job losses during the Great Depression intensified pressure on migrant communities.

Ch. 12

12 Mexico

greenhorns (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Newcomers unfamiliar with the customs and routines of their new country.

Root & origingreen — growing or inexperienced Green comes from Old English grene. Greenhorn joins green, in its inexperienced sense, to horn; the compound means a newcomer.

Same-root relativesgreen · greenhorn · greenness · greenery

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some immigrants changed dress, language, or names to avoid being treated as inexperienced outsiders.
YPT 228–229

Ch. 11

greg (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root meaning flock or group; it helps connect segregation with separating people from a group.

Root & origingreg — flock or group Segregation comes from Latin segregare, to separate from a flock, using se-, apart, and grex, with the form gregis, meaning flock.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives segregate (verb) · segregation (noun) · congregate (verb) · congregation (noun) · aggregate (noun)

See it in context

In congregate, greg helps express the idea of gathering into a group.
African Americans challenged segregation as they struggled to make freedom and equality meaningful after slavery.
segregate + -ion → segregation; greg is the historical group/flock root.
YPT 9

Ch. 1 Ch. 5 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

greg — flock

gress (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root connected to stepping or going; it appears in words about movement and progress.

Root & origingress — step or go Gress comes from Latin gradi, meaning to step, and its related form gressus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives progress (noun) · progressive (noun / adjective) · aggression (noun) · congress (noun) · regress (noun / verb)

See it in context

In progress, gress helps express the idea of moving or stepping forward.
What white settlers described as progress could mean loss of land and power for Native nations.
pro- (forward) + gress (step/go), a historical root analysis.
YPT 16

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

gress — step

gubern (root)

Root

Meaning: steer a ship

Same-root relatives gubernatorial (adjective) · government (noun) · governor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

gubern — steer a ship

gyn (root)

Root

Meaning: woman

Same-root relatives misogynist (noun) · androgynous (adjective) · androgyny (noun)

Membean word-part reference

gyn — woman

hab (root)

Root

Meaning: have

Same-root relatives inhabitant (noun) · habit (noun) · rehabilitation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hab — have

Harlem Renaissance (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The flowering of Black cultural and intellectual expression centered in Harlem.

Root & originnaiss — be born Renaissance comes from French renaissance, rebirth, related to naître, to be born, from Latin nasci. Re- adds again.

Same-root relativesrenaissance · naissance · native · natal

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Writers, painters, and musicians drew on Black life and history while challenging mainstream expectations.
YPT 265–266

Ch. 13

her (root)

Root

Meaning: stick, cling, hold fast

Same-root relatives adhere (verb) · inherent (adjective) · coherent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

her — stick, cling, hold fast

hereditary (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Passed from parents to children through descent, including inherited traits or legally assigned status.

Root & originhered — heir Hereditary comes from Latin hereditarius, relating to inheritance, from heres, with the form heredis, meaning heir.

Same-root relativesheir · inherit · inheritance · heredity

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Jowan’s sale made servitude hereditary by claiming not only the ten-year-old girl but also her future children and their descendants.

(YPT 52)

herit (root)

Root

Meaning: successor

Same-root relatives heritage (noun) · inheritance (noun) · inherit (verb)

Membean word-part reference

herit — successor

hes (root)

Root

Meaning: stick

Same-root relatives hesitate (verb) · cohesion (noun) · adhesive (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

hes — stick

hetero- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: other

Words sharing this prefix heterogeneous (adjective) · heterodox (adjective) · heterodoxy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hetero- — other

hibit (root)

Root

Meaning: hold

Same-root relatives exhibit (verb) · exhibition (noun) · prohibit (verb)

Membean word-part reference

hibit — hold

hier (root)

Root

Meaning: holy

Same-root relatives hierarchy (noun) · hierarchical (adjective) · hieroglyph (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hier — holy

hilar (root)

Root

Meaning: cheerful, merry

Same-root relatives exhilarating (adjective) · hilarious (adjective) · hilarity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hilar — cheerful, merry

hind (root)

Root

Meaning: back

Same-root relatives hindmost (adjective) · hindquarters (noun) · hindsight (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hind — back

hiring-out (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An arrangement in which an owner receives payment for an enslaved person’s work for another employer.

Root & originhire — pay for service Hire comes from Old English hyrian, to employ for pay. In hiring-out, an enslaver rented out an enslaved person’s labor; the phrase does not imply the worker chose it.

Same-root relativeshire · hired · hiring · hireling · rehiring

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some urban enslaved people gained room to act outside their owners’ direct supervision through hiring-out.
YPT 92

Ch. 5

hod (root)

Root

Meaning: road, way

Same-root relatives method (noun) · methodical (adjective) · methodology (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hod — road, way

hom (root)

Root

Meaning: human being, man

Same-root relatives homicide (noun) · bonhomie (noun) · homage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hom — human being, man

homo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: same

Words sharing this prefix homogeneous (adjective) · homogeneity (noun) · homosexual (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

homo- — same

hor (root)

Root

Meaning: tremble, dread, shudder

Same-root relatives horror (noun) · horrible (adjective) · abhor (verb)

Membean word-part reference

hor — tremble, dread, shudder

hor- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: boundary

Words sharing this prefix horizon (noun) · horizontal (noun / adjective) · aphorism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hor- — boundary

hort (root)

Root

Meaning: urge, encourage

Same-root relatives exhortation (noun) · exhort (verb) · hortatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

hort — urge, encourage

hospit (root)

Root

Meaning: host, guest

Same-root relatives hospital (noun) · hospitable (adjective) · hospitality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hospit — host, guest

housing segregation (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The separation of groups into different residential areas through laws, discriminatory practices, unequal access, or other barriers.

Root & origingreg — flock or group For word study, focus on segregation. Segregation comes from Latin segregare, to separate from a flock, using se-, apart, and grex, with the form gregis, meaning flock.

Same-root relatives of segregationsegregate · segregation · desegregate · congregate · aggregate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The map reveals patterns of housing segregation across the city.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

hum (root)

Root

Meaning: ground

Same-root relatives humble (adjective) · humiliation (noun) · humility (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hum — ground

human (root)

Root

Meaning: of mankind

Root & originhuman — human being Human comes from Latin humanus, meaning human, related to homo, meaning a human being.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives human (noun / adjective) · humanity (noun) · humanism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

human — of mankind

hyper- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: over, above

Words sharing this prefix hyperbolic (adjective) · hyperactive (adjective) · hyperactivity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hyper- — over, above

hypo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under, below

Words sharing this prefix hypocrisy (noun) · hypothesis (noun) · hypocrite (noun)

Membean word-part reference

hypo- — under, below

i (root)

Root

Meaning: go

Same-root relatives perish (verb) · ambiance (noun) · transience (noun)

Membean word-part reference

i — go

icon (root)

Root

Meaning: image, statue

Same-root relatives icon (noun) · iconic (adjective) · iconoclasm (noun)

Membean word-part reference

icon — image, statue

id (root)

Root

Meaning: same

Same-root relatives identity (noun) · identify (verb) · identical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

id — same

ideology (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A connected set of beliefs about society and power that helps people interpret or justify actions.

Root & originidea — form or conception Idea comes from Greek idea, meaning a form or appearance. Ideology adds a part connected with Greek logos, meaning an account or study.

Same-root relativesidea · ideal · idealize · ideological

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer explains how an ideology can make unequal treatment seem acceptable to its supporters.

Ch. 4

4 Road

idio- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: own, personal, private

Words sharing this prefix idiom (noun) · idiot (noun) · idiosyncrasy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

idio- — own, personal, private

idol (root)

Root

Meaning: image, likeness, shape

Same-root relatives idol (noun) · idolize (verb) · idolater (noun)

Membean word-part reference

idol — image, likeness, shape

ig (root)

Root

Meaning: do, act

Same-root relatives ambiguous (adjective) · ambiguity (noun) · mitigate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ig — do, act

ig- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not

Words sharing this prefix ignorant (adjective) · ignore (verb) · ignoramus (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ig- — not

ign (root)

Root

Meaning: produce, bring forth

Same-root relatives malign (verb) · benign (adjective) · malignant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ign — produce, bring forth

il- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: in, on

Words sharing this prefix illuminate (verb) · illumination (noun) · illustrious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

il- — in, on

il- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not

Words sharing this prefix illegal (adjective) · illegitimate (noun / adjective) · illicit (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

il- — not

im- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: in, on

Words sharing this prefix import (noun / verb) · immigrate (verb) · impress (verb)

Membean word-part reference

im- — in, on

im- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not

Words sharing this prefix immediately (adverb) · immortal (noun / adjective) · immense (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

im- — not

imag (root)

Root

Meaning: likeness, idea

Same-root relatives image (noun / verb) · imagine (verb) · imaginary (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

imag — likeness, idea

imit (root)

Root

Meaning: copy, resemble

Same-root relatives imitation (noun / adjective) · imitate (verb) · imitative (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

imit — copy, resemble

imper (root)

Root

Meaning: command, provide leadership

Same-root relatives imperial (noun / adjective) · imperative (adjective) · imperious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

imper — command, provide leadership

impet (root)

Root

Meaning: impulse, attack

Same-root relatives impetus (noun) · impetuous (adjective) · impetigo (noun)

Membean word-part reference

impet — impulse, attack

in- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: against

Words sharing this prefix insurrection (noun) · inhibit (verb) · inveigh (verb)

Membean word-part reference

in- — against

in- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: in, on, into

Words sharing this prefix involved (adjective) · investigation (noun) · intend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

in- — in, on, into

in- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not

Words sharing this prefix individual (noun) · independent (adjective) · inevitable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

in- — not

in-/im- (prefix)

Prefix

A different prefix meaning in or into; im- is a spelling form before certain sounds. It does not mean not in immigration or import.

Word-part originin- / im- (in) Latin in means in or into. Its spelling can change to im- before certain sounds. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix immigrate (verb) · immigration (noun) · import (noun / verb) · include (verb) · inclusion (noun)

See it in context

Mexico banned further American immigration into Texas as officials tried to limit foreign settlement.
im- (into) + migr- (move) + -ation, a root-based analysis.
YPT 126

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

in-/im-/il-/ir- (prefix)

Prefix

Means not. The same negative prefix changes spelling before some sounds: im- before p, b, or m; il- before l; ir- before r.

Word-part originin- / im- / il- / ir- (not) Latin in- means not in this prefix family. The final consonant changes in words such as illegal and irregular. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix injustice (noun) · inequality (noun) · impossible (noun / adjective) · illegal (adjective) · irresponsible (adjective)

See it in context

David Walker denounced the injustice of a system that defined other human beings as property.
in- (not) + justice; this is the negative in-, not the into prefix.
YPT 85

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 13 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

ir- — not

indenture (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A legally binding period of service to a master.

Root & origindent — tooth Indenture came through French from Latin dens, with the form dentis, meaning tooth. Matching notches cut into a contract’s copies helped show they belonged together.

Same-root relativesdent · dental · indent · indentation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes a usual four-to-seven-year term, after which a servant could seek independent work.
YPT 48–49

Ch. 3

indentured (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Bound by a contract to work for someone for a specified period, often in exchange for passage or another benefit.

Root & origindent — tooth Indenture came through French from Latin dens, with the form dentis, meaning tooth. Matching notches cut into a contract’s copies helped show they belonged together.

Same-root relativesdent · dental · indent · indentation · indenture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

indenture + -ed → indentured

indenture: bind by a service contract · -ed: participle or past-tense ending

The base already ends in e, so adding -ed does not produce a second e.

Ch. 3

3 Origins

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

See it in context

An indentured servant in Virginia usually owed a master four to seven years of work, after which the servant could seek independent work or land.

(YPT 48–49)

Indian Removal Act (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An 1830 U.S. law authorizing the president to negotiate exchanges of Native nations' lands east of the Mississippi for lands to the west; it supported a wider campaign of coercive removal.

Root & originmove / mot — move This is the name of a U.S. law concerning the forced removal of Native peoples. For word study, focus on removal. Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Same-root relatives of removalmovement · removal · motion · motive · motivation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

An analysis of the Indian Removal Act should distinguish the law's language from the forced displacement that followed.

Ch. 4

4 Road

Indian Reorganization Act (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The 1934 law that ended allotment and supported tribal land acquisition and local self-government.

Root & originorgan — tool or instrument This is the name of a U.S. law changing federal policy toward Native peoples. For word study, focus on reorganization. Organize traces back to Greek organon, meaning a tool or instrument. The family developed meanings about arranging parts to work together.

Same-root relatives of reorganizationorgan · organize · organization · organizer · reorganize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Tribes voted on whether to accept reorganization; the Navajo were among those that rejected it.
YPT 177–178

Ch. 9

indic (root)

Root

Meaning: one who shows, forefinger

Same-root relatives indication (noun) · indicator (noun) · contraindicate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

indic — one who shows, forefinger

ingenu (root)

Root

Meaning: honest

Same-root relatives disingenuous (adjective) · ingenue (noun) · ingenuity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ingenu — honest

injustice (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Unfair treatment or a violation of people's rights.

Root & originjust / jur — right or law Just and jur trace back to Latin ius, meaning right or law. Iustus means just; iuris is another form of ius.

Same-root relativesjustice · justify · jury · juror

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

in- + justice

in-: not or lack of · justice: fair treatment

See it in context

The speakers connected racial injustice to unequal access to jobs and housing.

Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

inseparable (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

So closely connected that the parts cannot be separated or fully understood apart.

Root & originsepar — put apart Separate comes from Latin separare, meaning to put apart, with se-, apart, and parare, to prepare or arrange.

Same-root relativesseparate · separation · separable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

in- + separable

in-: not · separable: able to be separated

The separable base contains -able; the prefix makes its meaning negative.

See it in context

The argument presents political rights and economic opportunity as inseparable.

Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

insul (root)

Root

Meaning: island

Same-root relatives insulate (verb) · insulin (noun) · insularity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

insul — island

integr (root)

Root

Meaning: whole, entire

Same-root relatives integration (noun) · integrate (verb) · integrity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

integr — whole, entire

integration (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Ending racial separation so people can participate in shared institutions.

Root & originintegr — whole Integration comes from Latin integrare, meaning to make whole, from integer, meaning whole or untouched.

Same-root relativesintegrate · integral · integrity · disintegrate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

integrate + -ion → integration

integrate: bring parts or people into a shared whole · -ion: process

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

Du Bois had long supported integration before proposing temporary Black economic self-reliance during the Depression.
YPT 267
Nourzaie described Afghan Americans keeping their culture while functioning in American society.
YPT 328

Ch. 13 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

intellig (root)

Root

Meaning: understand

Same-root relatives intelligence (noun) · intelligent (adjective) · intelligible (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

intellig — understand

inter- (prefix)

Prefix

Between or among; useful for describing relationships that cross groups or national borders.

Word-part origininter- Latin inter means between or among. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix interracial (adjective) · international (noun / adjective) · interact (verb) · interaction (noun) · interchange (noun / verb)

See it in context

Virginia laws outlawed interracial relationships as officials tightened racial boundaries.
inter- (between) + racial.
YPT 59

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 9 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

inter- — between, within, among

internment (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Detention by government order, especially during war, without an ordinary criminal trial; the term has specific legal uses and is often used broadly for wartime confinement.

Root & originintern — inside Internment comes from intern, to confine within an area, through French interner and Latin internus, meaning inward. It does not use inter- meaning between.

Same-root relativesintern · internal · internally · internalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

intern + -ment

intern: confine people under government authority · -ment: act or state

Here intern means confine. Do not split this word into inter- plus nment.

See it in context

When studying Japanese American internment, examine forced removal and incarceration as well as the language officials used.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

intro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: within

Words sharing this prefix introduce (verb) · introductory (adjective) · introspective (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

intro- — within

invid (root)

Root

Meaning: be envious of

Same-root relatives invidious (adjective) · envy (noun / verb) · envious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

invid — be envious of

ir (root)

Root

Meaning: become angry

Same-root relatives irascible (adjective) · irate (adjective) · ire (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ir — become angry

Issei (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The immigrant generation of Japanese Americans.

Root & originichi / sei — one / generation Issei is Japanese for first generation. Its first element is related to ichi, one; sei means generation.

Same-root relativesNisei (second generation) · Sansei (third generation) · Yonsei (fourth generation)

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline · Merriam-Webster

See it in context

The chapter contrasts Issei barred from naturalization with their American-born children.
YPT 209

Ch. 10

it (root)

Root

Meaning: go

Same-root relatives ambition (noun / verb) · initiative (noun / adjective) · transition (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

it — go

itiner (root)

Root

Meaning: journey

Same-root relatives itinerant (noun / adjective) · itinerary (noun)

Membean word-part reference

itiner — journey

Japanese-Mexican Labor Association (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A labor organization formed by Japanese and Mexican workers in California that cooperated across ethnic lines to seek better working conditions.

Root & originsoci — companion or ally For word study, focus on association. Soci comes from Latin socius, meaning a companion or ally.

Same-root relatives of associationsocial · society · associate · association · sociable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Japanese-Mexican Labor Association offers an example of workers building power through cross-ethnic cooperation.

Ch. 10

10 Japan

ject (root)

Root

Meaning: thrown

Root & originject — throw Ject comes from Latin iacere, meaning to throw; iactus is a related form.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives objective (adjective) · reject (verb) · dejection (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ject — thrown

jet (root)

Root

Meaning: throw, cast

Same-root relatives jetliner (noun) · jetsam (noun) · jettison (verb)

Membean word-part reference

jet — throw, cast

Jim Crow (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The system of laws and practices that enforced racial segregation and Black subordination in the United States, especially in the South after Reconstruction.

Root & originHistorical name · a racist stage character Jim Crow was the name of a racist stage character before it became a term for segregation. This is a history of a name, not an English word built from meaningful roots.

Connected vocabulary · the segregate familysegregate · segregation · segregationist

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Jim Crow restricted political participation as well as access to public spaces.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

Jim Crow laws (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

State laws used to enforce racial segregation.

Connected vocabulary · the segregate familysegregate · segregation · segregationist

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes Southern laws assigning unequal places in trains, theaters, hospitals, and restaurants.
YPT 99

Ch. 5

joc (root)

Root

Meaning: joke

Same-root relatives jocular (adjective) · jocose (adjective) · jeopardy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

joc — joke

join (root)

Root

Meaning: join, attach, form a link

Same-root relatives join (noun / verb) · joint (noun / verb / adjective) · jointly (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

join — join, attach, form a link

journ (root)

Root

Meaning: pertaining to the day, daily

Same-root relatives journey (noun) · journalist (noun) · adjourn (verb)

Membean word-part reference

journ — pertaining to the day, daily

judic (root)

Root

Meaning: judge

Same-root relatives prejudice (noun) · judicial (adjective) · judiciary (noun)

Membean word-part reference

judic — judge

jug (root)

Root

Meaning: yoke

Same-root relatives conjugal (adjective) · subjugate (verb) · subjugation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

jug — yoke

junct (root)

Root

Meaning: joined, attached

Same-root relatives adjunct (noun) · conjunction (noun) · junction (noun)

Membean word-part reference

junct — joined, attached

jur (root)

Root

Meaning: swear, take an oath, law

Root & originjust / jur — right or law Just and jur trace back to Latin ius, meaning right or law. Iustus means just; iuris is another form of ius.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives jury (noun) · injury (noun) · injure (verb)

Membean word-part reference

jur — swear, take an oath, law

just / jus (root)

RootWord of the day

Related Latin forms connected to what is right or lawful; they link justify, justification, justice, and injustice to judgments about fairness and rights.

Root & originjust / jur — right or law Just and jur trace back to Latin ius, meaning right or law. Iustus means just; iuris is another form of ius.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

A policy's stated justification can be examined alongside the injustice it causes.

Same-root relatives just (adjective / adverb) · justice (noun) · justify (verb) · justification (noun) · injustice (noun)

Course spelling: just

Word-part references

justification (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A reason or argument offered to show that an action or belief is reasonable or right.

Root & originjust / jur — right or law Just and jur trace back to Latin ius, meaning right or law. Iustus means just; iuris is another form of ius.

Same-root relativesjustice · justify · injustice · jury · juror

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

justific- + -ation

justific-: stem related to justify, offer a reason or defense · -ation: process or result

The verb ending -fy changes to -fic- in this noun family.

See it in context

The author evaluates the evidence behind the policy's stated justification.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

justify (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To offer reasons that make an action or belief appear reasonable, necessary, or right.

Root & originjust / jur — right or law Just and jur trace back to Latin ius, meaning right or law. Iustus means just; iuris is another form of ius.

Same-root relativesjustice · injustice · jury · juror

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Supporters used Manifest Destiny to justify U.S. expansion into lands already inhabited and governed by other peoples.

juven (root)

Root

Meaning: young, young man

Same-root relatives juvenile (noun / adjective) · rejuvenate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

juven — young, young man

juxta- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: next to, beside

Words sharing this prefix juxtapose (verb) · juxtaposition (noun)

Membean word-part reference

juxta- — next to, beside

kine (root)

Root

Meaning: moving

Same-root relatives kinesthetic (adjective) · kinetic (adjective) · psychokinesis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

kine — moving

labor (root)

Root

Meaning: work

Root & originlabor — work Labor comes from Latin labor, meaning work or effort.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives labor (noun / verb) · laboratory (noun) · labored (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

labor — work

labor recruiters (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

People hired to find and sign up workers for employers.

Root & originlabor — work For word study, focus on labor. Labor comes from Latin labor, meaning work or effort.

Same-root relatives of laborlaborer · laborious · collaborate · collaboration · elaborate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Northern firms sent recruiters south when World War I reduced European immigration.
YPT 257

Ch. 13

labor reserve (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A pool of workers who can be drawn into employment when employers need labor and may be excluded or dismissed when demand falls.

Root & originlabor — work For word study, focus on labor. Labor comes from Latin labor, meaning work or effort.

Same-root relatives of laborlaborer · laborious · collaborate · collaboration · elaborate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The analysis asks how employers treated migrant workers as a labor reserve.

Ch. 12

12 Mexico

labor shortage (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A situation in which employers cannot find enough workers under the wages and conditions being offered.

Root & originlabor — work For word study, focus on labor. Labor comes from Latin labor, meaning work or effort.

Same-root relatives of laborlaborer · laborious · collaborate · collaboration · elaborate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

A labor shortage led employers to recruit workers from new communities.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

labor union (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

An organization of workers seeking better pay or working conditions.

Root & originuni — one For word study, focus on union. Union comes from Latin unio, oneness or unity, related to unus, meaning one. The family describes joining parts or people together.

Same-root relatives of unionunion · unite · unity · unionism · unionize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The Knights of St. Crispin united shoemakers to press for higher wages and an eight-hour day.
YPT 110–111

Ch. 6

land boom (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A rapid rise in demand for and activity around land.

Root & originland — ground or territory Land comes from Old English land, meaning ground or territory. It remains a whole English base in landless and landlord.

Same-root relativesland · landless · landlord · landowner · landownership

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Tobacco demand encouraged wealthy colonists to buy desirable farmland.
YPT 53

Ch. 3

land grant (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Land awarded by a government under specified conditions.

Root & originland — ground or territory Land comes from Old English land, meaning ground or territory. It remains a whole English base in landless and landlord.

Same-root relativesland · landless · landlord · landowner · landownership

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Mexican land grants later faced US legal and surveying requirements that jeopardized owners' claims.
YPT 129 YPT 135

Ch. 7

land speculator (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Someone who buys land hoping to sell it for profit.

Root & originspect — look Spect comes from Latin specere, meaning to look. It connects literal looking with viewpoints and judgments.

Same-root relativesinspect · respect · spectator · perspective · prospect

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Jackson bought and resold land that had belonged to the Chickasaw.
YPT 68

Ch. 4

landsmanshafts (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Mutual connections or lodges of immigrants from the same town or district.

Root & originland / man / shaft — country / person / association Landsmanshaft is Yiddish, formed from landsman, a person from the same place, plus -shaft, a group or association. The ending is related to English -ship.

Same-root relativeslandsmanshaft · landsman · countryman

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster

See it in context

Lower East Side residents formed these networks to support community life.
YPT 221

Ch. 11

langu (root)

Root

Meaning: be sluggish, wilt, lack vigor

Same-root relatives languid (adjective) · languish (verb) · languor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

langu — be sluggish, wilt, lack vigor

lat (root)

Root

Meaning: carry

Same-root relatives legislature (noun) · relationship (noun) · relative (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lat — carry

lat (root)

Root

Meaning: wide

Same-root relatives dilate (verb) · latitude (noun) · dilatation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lat — wide

later (root)

Root

Meaning: side

Same-root relatives bilateral (adjective) · multilateral (adjective) · unilateral (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

later — side

laud (root)

Root

Meaning: praise

Same-root relatives laudable (adjective) · laudatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

laud — praise

lav (root)

Root

Meaning: wash

Same-root relatives lavish (verb / adjective) · lavatory (noun) · lavishly (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

lav — wash

lax (root)

Root

Meaning: loosen, take one's ease

Same-root relatives relax (verb) · relaxation (noun) · relaxing (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lax — loosen, take one's ease

lect (root)

Root

Meaning: gathered, chosen

Root & originleg / lect — gather or read Leg and lect come from Latin legere, meaning to gather, choose, or read, and its related form lectus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives collective (noun / adjective) · collect (noun / verb / adjective / adverb) · select (verb)

Membean word-part reference

lect — gathered, chosen

lect (root)

Root

Meaning: speak, read

Same-root relatives dialect (noun) · lecture (noun / verb) · dialectic (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lect — speak, read

leg (root)

Root

Meaning: bind, choose

Same-root relatives college (noun) · relegate (verb) · allegation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

leg — bind, choose

leg (root)

Root

Meaning: gather, read

Root & originleg / lect — gather or read Leg and lect come from Latin legere, meaning to gather, choose, or read, and its related form lectus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives elegance (noun) · legendary (adjective) · elegant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

leg — gather, read

leg (root)

Root

Meaning: law

Root & originleg — law Leg in legal and legislature comes from Latin lex, with the form legis, meaning law. It is different from leg meaning read in legible.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives legislature (noun) · legal (adjective) · illegal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

leg — law

legislature (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A government body that makes laws.

Root & originleg — law Leg in legal and legislature comes from Latin lex, with the form legis, meaning law. It is different from leg meaning read in legible.

Same-root relativeslegal · illegal · legislate · legislation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Virginia’s elite-controlled legislature lengthened indentures and later restricted voting to landowners.
YPT 53 YPT 55

Ch. 3

letter (root)

Root

Meaning: letter of the alphabet; document

Same-root relatives letter (noun / verb) · unlettered (adjective) · literature (noun)

Membean word-part reference

letter — letter of the alphabet; document

lev (root)

Root

Meaning: light, of little weight

Same-root relatives elevator (noun) · relevant (adjective) · elevate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

lev — light, of little weight

lex (root)

Root

Meaning: of words

Same-root relatives lexicon (noun) · lexicographer (noun) · lexicography (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lex — of words

li (root)

Root

Meaning: tie, bind, link

Same-root relatives alliance (noun) · reliant (adjective) · reliable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

li — tie, bind, link

liber (root)

RootWord of the day

A Latin root connected to being free; it links liberty, liberate, and liberation to freedom from restraint or control.

Root & originliber — free Liber comes from Latin liber, meaning free. It is a different Latin word from liber meaning book.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives liberty (noun) · liberal (noun / adjective) · liberation (noun)

Word-part references

Membean word-part reference

liber — free

liberty (noun)

Word of the day

Freedom to act or live without unjust control or restraint.

Root & originliber — free Liber comes from Latin liber, meaning free. It is a different Latin word from liber meaning book.

Same-root relativesliberate · liberation · liberal · illiberal

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay asks whose liberty the law protected and whose it restricted.

Documents A

lic (root)

Root

Meaning: it is permitted, one may

Same-root relatives license (noun / verb) · illicit (adjective) · licentious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lic — it is permitted, one may

lict (root)

Root

Meaning: left behind, abandoned

Same-root relatives dereliction (noun) · derelict (noun / adjective) · relic (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lict — left behind, abandoned

lid (root)

Root

Meaning: strike, harm

Same-root relatives collide (verb) · collision (noun) · lesion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lid — strike, harm

lieu (root)

Root

Meaning: place

Same-root relatives lieutenant (noun) · milieu (noun) · lieu (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lieu — place

lig (root)

Root

Meaning: tie, bind

Same-root relatives religion (noun) · religious (noun / adjective) · obligation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lig — tie, bind

limin (root)

Root

Meaning: doorway, threshold

Same-root relatives eliminate (verb) · preliminary (noun) · elimination (noun)

Membean word-part reference

limin — doorway, threshold

limit (root)

Root

Meaning: boundary

Same-root relatives limited (noun / adjective) · limit (verb) · limits (noun)

Membean word-part reference

limit — boundary

lin (root)

Root

Meaning: line, string, thread

Same-root relatives line (noun / verb) · outline (noun / verb) · linear (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lin — line, string, thread

lion (root)

Root

Meaning: lion

Same-root relatives lion (noun) · lionize (verb) · dandelion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lion — lion

lips (root)

Root

Meaning: leave

Same-root relatives eclipse (noun / verb) · ellipse (noun) · ellipsis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lips — leave

liqu (root)

Root

Meaning: flow, be liquid

Same-root relatives liquid (noun / adjective) · liquor (noun) · liquidation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

liqu — flow, be liquid

lit (root)

Root

Meaning: lawsuit

Same-root relatives litigation (noun) · allege (verb) · allegation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lit — lawsuit

liter (root)

Root

Meaning: letter of the alphabet

Same-root relatives literature (noun) · illiterate (noun / adjective) · literacy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

liter — letter of the alphabet

lith (root)

Root

Meaning: stone

Same-root relatives lithium (noun) · lithography (noun) · megalith (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lith — stone

loc (root)

Root

Meaning: place

Root & originloc — place Loc comes from Latin locus, meaning a place.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives local (noun / adjective) · locate (verb) · allocate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

loc — place

locut (root)

Root

Meaning: having spoken

Same-root relatives circumlocution (noun) · elocution (noun) · interlocutor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

locut — having spoken

log (root)

Root

Meaning: word, study, reason

Same-root relatives logic (noun) · dialogue (noun) · biology (noun)

Membean word-part reference

log — word, study, reason

long (root)

Root

Meaning: long

Same-root relatives prolonged (adjective) · prolong (verb) · elongate (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

long — long

Long Walk (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The forced Navajo march to Bosque Redondo described in the chapter.

Root & originwalk — travel on foot Long Walk is a historical name. For word study, walk developed from Old English wealcan, to roll or move about, and a related verb meaning to tread.

Same-root relatives of walkwalk · walker · walking · walkway

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

After troops destroyed Navajo orchards and sheep herds, people were rounded up and removed from their homeland.
YPT 179

Ch. 9

loqu (root)

Root

Meaning: talk, speak

Same-root relatives eloquent (adjective) · colloquial (adjective) · colloquialism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

loqu — talk, speak

loy (root)

Root

Meaning: tie, bind, link

Same-root relatives alloy (noun / verb) · alloyed (adjective) · unalloyed (adjective)

The historical link is joining or binding materials together; the spelling changes from lig to loy.

Example word references

Merriam-Webster: alloy

Membean word-part reference

loy — tie, bind, link

luc (root)

Root

Meaning: light, brightness, clarity

Same-root relatives lucid (adjective) · translucent (adjective) · elucidate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

luc — light, brightness, clarity

luct (root)

Root

Meaning: struggle, fight against

Same-root relatives reluctant (adjective) · ineluctable (adjective) · reluctance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

luct — struggle, fight against

lud (root)

Root

Meaning: play, trick

Same-root relatives interlude (noun / verb) · elude (verb) · delude (verb)

Membean word-part reference

lud — play, trick

lumin (root)

Root

Meaning: light, glow

Same-root relatives illuminate (verb) · illumine (verb) · illumination (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lumin — light, glow

luna (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A plantation field boss in Hawaii.

Root & originluna — above or in authority Here luna is Hawaiian, with meanings including above and overseer. It is unrelated to Latin luna, moon, despite having the same spelling.

Same-root relativeshoʻoluna (Hawaiian: appoint as an officer) · luna nui (Hawaiian: chief officer)

Word-history source

Word history: Hawaiian dictionary

See it in context

A luna supervised workers and used the threat suggested by a whip to push them to work harder.
YPT 194

Ch. 10

lus (root)

Root

Meaning: play, trick

Same-root relatives illusion (noun) · allusion (noun) · collusion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lus — play, trick

lustr (root)

Root

Meaning: illumine, brighten

Same-root relatives illustrate (verb) · illustration (noun) · illustrative (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

lustr — illumine, brighten

lut (root)

Root

Meaning: wash

Same-root relatives dilute (verb / adjective) · dilution (noun) · ablution (noun)

Membean word-part reference

lut — wash

luv (root)

Root

Meaning: wash, bathe

Same-root relatives alluvial (adjective) · antediluvian (noun / adjective) · deluge (noun)

Membean word-part reference

luv — wash, bathe

luxur (root)

Root

Meaning: excess

Same-root relatives luxury (noun) · luxurious (adjective) · luxuriant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

luxur — excess

ly (root)

Root

Meaning: untie

Same-root relatives catalyst (noun) · analysis (noun) · analyze (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ly — untie

lynching (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A killing carried out without lawful trial, commonly by a mob; in U.S. history, it was a major form of racial terror against Black people.

Root & originLynch — a surname Lynch comes from the expression Lynch law, associated with the surname Lynch in colonial Virginia. Accounts differ about which man gave the expression its name.

Same-root relativeslynch · lynched · lynchings

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The historian examines how lynching intimidated communities and enforced racial power.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

machin (root)

Root

Meaning: plan, trick, artifice

Same-root relatives machine (noun / verb) · machinery (noun) · machinist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

machin — plan, trick, artifice

maci (root)

Root

Meaning: thin

Same-root relatives emaciated (adjective) · emaciation (noun) · meager (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

maci — thin

macro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: large, long

Words sharing this prefix macrobiotic (adjective) · macrocosm (noun) · macroscopic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

macro- — large, long

magist (root)

Root

Meaning: ruler, leader

Same-root relatives magistrate (noun) · magisterial (adjective) · magistracy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

magist — ruler, leader

magn (root)

Root

Meaning: large, great

Same-root relatives magnitude (noun) · magnificent (adjective) · magnify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

magn — large, great

major (root)

Root

Meaning: greater, larger

Same-root relatives majority (noun) · major (noun / verb / adjective) · majorette (noun)

Membean word-part reference

major — greater, larger

mal (root)

Root

Meaning: bad, evil

Same-root relatives malaise (noun) · malady (noun) · malaria (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mal — bad, evil

man (root)

Root

Meaning: hand

Same-root relatives manage (verb) · emancipation (noun) · manager (noun)

Membean word-part reference

man — hand

man (root)

Root

Meaning: stay, remain

Same-root relatives permanent (noun / adjective) · immanence (noun) · immanent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

man — stay, remain

mand (root)

Root

Meaning: order

Same-root relatives demand (verb) · demanding (adjective) · commander (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mand — order

mania (root)

Root

Meaning: madness, frenzy

Same-root relatives maniac (noun / adjective) · mania (noun) · maniacal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mania — madness, frenzy

Manifest Destiny (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The nineteenth-century belief that U.S. expansion across North America was justified or divinely intended.

Root & origindestin — establish or determine Destiny comes through French from Latin destinare, to establish or determine. In Manifest Destiny, the word presented expansion as a predetermined future.

Same-root relativesdestiny · destine · destined · destination

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Supporters invoked Manifest Destiny to present territorial expansion as the nation's rightful future.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

mant (root)

Root

Meaning: cloak

Same-root relatives mantle (noun / verb) · dismantle (verb) · manta (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mant — cloak

manufacturing (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The production of goods by transforming materials, often with machines and organized labor.

Root & originmanu / fact — hand / make Manufacture combines Latin manus, meaning hand, with facere, meaning to make. It now includes production by machines.

Same-root relativesmanufacture · manufacturer · manuscript · manual

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Growth in manufacturing increased demand for workers in industrial cities.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

marginalized (adjective)

Chapter vocabulary

Pushed away from a society’s central opportunities, power, or recognition.

Root & originmargin — edge Marginalize is built from margin, through French from Latin margo, with the form marginis, meaning an edge or border.

Same-root relativesmargin · marginal · marginalize · marginalization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

marginal + -ize + -ed

marginal: at the edge, outside the center · -ize: make or treat as · -ed: participle or past-tense ending

The final e of marginalize combines with -ed to give marginalized.

See it in context

The author describes marginalized minorities struggling for equality and respect.
YPT 339

Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Market Revolution (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The expansion of markets, commercial farming, wage labor, industry, and transportation in the United States during the early nineteenth century.

Root & originvolve — roll Here revolution names a major change in economic life rather than a military revolt. For word study, focus on revolution. Involve comes from Latin involvere, meaning to roll into or surround, built on volvere, to roll.

Same-root relatives of revolutioninvolve · involvement · revolve · revolution · evolve

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay connects the Market Revolution to changes in how goods reached distant buyers.

Ch. 7

Documents A · 7 Mexico

mass (root)

Root

Meaning: lump

Same-root relatives massive (adjective) · amass (verb) · massif (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mass — lump

Master Narrative (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Takaki’s term for a dominant account that centers white European ancestry in American identity.

Root & originnarr — tell Narr comes from Latin narrare, meaning to tell or relate a story.

Same-root relativesnarrate · narrative · narrator · narration · narrativize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The driver’s assumption about Takaki leads the author to question the history that makes some Americans seem foreign.
YPT 6–7

Ch. 1

math (root)

Root

Meaning: learn, understand

Same-root relatives mathematics (noun) · mathematical (adjective) · math (noun)

Membean word-part reference

math — learn, understand

matr (root)

Root

Meaning: mother

Same-root relatives matriculate (noun / verb) · matriarch (noun) · matrimony (noun)

Membean word-part reference

matr — mother

matur (root)

Root

Meaning: make ripe

Same-root relatives maturity (noun) · mature (adjective) · maturation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

matur — make ripe

maxim (root)

Root

Meaning: largest

Same-root relatives maximum (noun) · maximize (verb) · maximal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

maxim — largest

me (root)

Root

Meaning: pass, proceed

Same-root relatives permeate (verb) · impermeable (adjective) · permeability (noun)

Membean word-part reference

me — pass, proceed

medi (root)

Root

Meaning: middle, in the middle, in half

Same-root relatives immediately (adverb) · immediate (adjective) · medium (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

medi — middle, in the middle, in half

medl (root)

Root

Meaning: blend, mingle, mix

Same-root relatives medley (noun) · meddle (verb) · meddlesome (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

medl — blend, mingle, mix

mega- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: great, large

Words sharing this prefix megalomania (noun) · megalopolis (noun) · megaton (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mega- — great, large

mel (root)

Root

Meaning: blend, mingle, mix

Same-root relatives melee (noun) · melange (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mel — blend, mingle, mix

mel (root)

Root

Meaning: song

Same-root relatives melody (noun) · melodious (adjective) · melodrama (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mel — song

melior (root)

Root

Meaning: better

Same-root relatives ameliorate (verb) · amelioration (noun) · ameliorative (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

melior — better

memor (root)

Root

Meaning: remembering

Same-root relatives memory (noun) · memorial (noun) · memorable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

memor — remembering

men (root)

Root

Meaning: threat

Same-root relatives menace (noun / verb) · menacing (adjective) · menacingly (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

men — threat

mend (root)

Root

Meaning: fault, defect, lying

Same-root relatives amendment (noun) · amend (verb) · mend (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

mend — fault, defect, lying

mens (root)

Root

Meaning: act of measuring

Same-root relatives dimension (noun / verb) · immense (adjective) · commensurate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mens — act of measuring

ment (root)

Root

Meaning: mind

Same-root relatives mention (noun / verb) · mental (adjective) · commentary (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ment — mind

merc (root)

Root

Meaning: trade

Same-root relatives commercial (noun / adjective) · commerce (noun) · merchant (noun)

Membean word-part reference

merc — trade

merg (root)

Root

Meaning: plunge

Same-root relatives emergency (noun) · emerge (verb) · merge (verb)

Membean word-part reference

merg — plunge

merit (root)

Root

Meaning: earned, gained, deserved

Same-root relatives emeritus (noun / adjective) · meritorious (adjective) · demerit (noun)

Membean word-part reference

merit — earned, gained, deserved

mers (root)

Root

Meaning: plunge

Same-root relatives immerse (verb) · immersion (noun) · submerse (verb)

Membean word-part reference

mers — plunge

meta- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: beyond, change

Words sharing this prefix metaphor (noun) · metaphysical (adjective) · metabolic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

meta- — beyond, change

metr (root)

Root

Meaning: measure

Same-root relatives symmetry (noun) · geometry (noun) · symmetrical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

metr — measure

metr (root)

Root

Meaning: mother

Same-root relatives metropolitan (noun / adjective) · metropolis (noun) · metro (noun)

Membean word-part reference

metr — mother

micro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: small

Words sharing this prefix microscope (noun) · microorganism (noun) · microphone (noun)

Membean word-part reference

micro- — small

Middle Passage (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The forced Atlantic crossing that carried captive Africans into slavery.

Root & originpass — go through Passage comes through French from passer, to pass or go through. In Middle Passage, it names the forced Atlantic crossing of enslaved Africans.

Same-root relativespass · passage · passenger · passing

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter’s closing account describes terror, confinement, and suffering aboard a slave ship.
YPT 63–65

Ch. 3

migr (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root connected to moving from one place to another, including movement into or out of a country.

Root & originmigr — move to a new place Migr comes from Latin migrare, meaning to move from one place to another.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives migrate (verb) · migration (noun) · immigrant (noun) · emigrate (verb) · migratory (adjective)

See it in context

The root migr connects migration, immigrant, and emigrate to movement between places.
The forced migration of the Cherokee caused severe suffering and thousands of deaths on the Trail of Tears.
migrate + -ion → migration; migr is the move root.
YPT 76

Ch. 1 Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Documents C

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

migr — move

migration (noun)

Word of the day

The movement of people from one place to another, within a country or across national borders.

Root & originmigr — move to a new place Migr comes from Latin migrare, meaning to move from one place to another.

Same-root relativesmigrate · migrant · immigration · emigrate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

migrate + -ion → migration

migrate: move from one place to another · -ion: process

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

The family described both economic pressures and new opportunities as reasons for migration.

Documents B

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

militia (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A fighting force made up of citizen volunteers.

Root & originmilit — soldier Militia comes from Latin militia, meaning military service, from miles, with the form militis, meaning soldier.

Same-root relativesmilitary · militant · militarize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Bacon organized a militia before his conflict with Berkeley became a rebellion.
YPT 55–56
Georgia’s militia blocked a Cherokee newspaper announcement and jailed Chief Ross.
YPT 75

Ch. 3 Ch. 4

mill- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: one thousand

Words sharing this prefix million (noun / adjective) · milligram (noun) · millennium (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mill- — one thousand

mim (root)

Root

Meaning: imitator, mimic

Same-root relatives mimic (noun / verb / adjective) · mimesis (noun) · mimetic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mim — imitator, mimic

min (root)

Root

Meaning: lean forward, threaten

Same-root relatives prominent (adjective) · prominence (noun) · eminence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

min — lean forward, threaten

min (root)

Root

Meaning: lessen, make smaller

Same-root relatives minority (noun) · minimum (noun) · minimal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

min — lessen, make smaller

ministr (root)

Root

Meaning: serve

Same-root relatives administrator (noun) · administration (noun) · ministry (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ministr — serve

mis (root)

Root

Meaning: send

Same-root relatives compromise (verb) · promising (adjective) · surmise (verb)

Membean word-part reference

mis — send

mis- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: hatred

Words sharing this prefix misanthrope (noun) · misogynist (noun) · misanthropy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mis- — hatred

mis- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: wrong, wrongly

Words sharing this prefix misgiving (noun) · misconstrue (verb) · misdeed (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mis- — wrong, wrongly

misc (root)

Root

Meaning: mix

Same-root relatives miscellaneous (adjective) · immiscible (adjective) · miscellany (noun)

Membean word-part reference

misc — mix

miser (root)

Root

Meaning: wretched

Same-root relatives miserable (adjective) · misery (noun) · commiserate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

miser — wretched

mit/miss (root)

RootWord of the day

Related bound Latin roots connected to sending or letting go; they appear in words about permission and commitments.

Root & originmit / miss — send Mit and miss come from Latin mittere, meaning to send or let go, and its related form missus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives commit (verb) · commitment (noun) · permit (noun / verb) · permission (noun) · mission (noun)

See it in context

Lincoln gave his generals permission to enlist Black soldiers when the Union needed more troops.
permit → permiss- + -ion; mit changes to miss in the related noun.
YPT 95

Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 7 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

mnes (root)

Root

Meaning: remember

Same-root relatives amnesty (noun / verb) · amnesia (noun) · amnesiac (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mnes — remember

mobil (root)

Root

Meaning: active, quick

Same-root relatives mobilize (verb) · automobile (noun / verb) · mobile (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mobil — active, quick

mobilize (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To organize people or resources so they can act together toward a goal.

Root & originmobil — movable Mobilize is built from Latin mobilis, meaning movable, related to movere, to move.

Same-root relativesmobile · mobility · mobilization · immobile

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Labor organizers used the idea of solidarity to mobilize workers for strikes over pay and working conditions.

mod (root)

Root

Meaning: measure, method, manner

Same-root relatives modern (noun / adjective) · model (noun / verb / adjective) · moderate (noun / verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mod — measure, method, manner

mol (root)

Root

Meaning: grind in a mill

Same-root relatives emolument (noun) · immolate (verb) · immolation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mol — grind in a mill

moll (root)

Root

Meaning: soft

Same-root relatives mollify (verb) · emollient (noun / adjective) · mollusc (noun)

Membean word-part reference

moll — soft

moment (root)

Root

Meaning: movement

Same-root relatives moment (noun) · momentum (noun) · momentarily (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

moment — movement

mon (root)

Root

Meaning: warn, advise, remind

Same-root relatives summon (verb) · monitor (noun / verb) · monument (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mon — warn, advise, remind

mono- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: one, single

Words sharing this prefix monopoly (noun) · monopolize (verb) · monologue (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mono- — one, single

monstrat (root)

Root

Meaning: showed, pointed out

Same-root relatives demonstrate (verb) · demonstration (noun) · remonstrate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

monstrat — showed, pointed out

mor (root)

Root

Meaning: custom, habit, manner

Same-root relatives immoral (adjective) · morality (noun) · moral (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mor — custom, habit, manner

mor (root)

Root

Meaning: die, decay, death

Same-root relatives immortal (noun / adjective) · mortality (noun) · immortality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mor — die, decay, death

morph (root)

Root

Meaning: shape, form

Same-root relatives amorphous (adjective) · anthropomorphic (adjective) · metamorphose (verb)

Membean word-part reference

morph — shape, form

mors (root)

Root

Meaning: bite

Same-root relatives remorse (noun) · morsel (noun) · remorseful (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mors — bite

mort (root)

Root

Meaning: death

Same-root relatives immortal (noun / adjective) · mortality (noun) · immortality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mort — death

mot (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: move

Root & originmove / mot — move Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives motive (noun) · motivation (noun) · promote (verb)

Membean word-part reference

mot — move

motivation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The reasons, needs, or desires that encourage someone to act.

Root & originmove / mot — move Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Same-root relativesmovement · removal · motion · motive

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

motivate + -ion → motivation

motivate: give a reason to act · -ion: process or state

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

The letters reveal several sources of motivation for joining the protest.

Ch. 4

4 Road

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

mount (root)

Root

Meaning: mountain

Same-root relatives mountain (noun) · amount (noun / verb) · paramount (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

mount — mountain

mov (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: move

Root & originmove / mot — move Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives removal (noun) · movement (noun) · move (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

mov — move

multi- (prefix)

Prefix

Many or more than one; useful for describing societies with several cultural or racial communities.

Word-part originmulti- Latin multus means much or many; multi- means many. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix multicultural (adjective) · multiracial (adjective) · multilingual (adjective) · multinational (adjective)

See it in context

Takaki’s journey to a conference on multicultural education opens a question about who gets recognized as American.
multi- (many) + culture + -al; culture drops its final e.
YPT 5

Ch. 1 Ch. 12 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

multi- — many

multicultural (adjective)

Chapter vocabulary

Involving multiple cultural groups.

Same-root relativesculture · cultural · cultivate · cultivation · agriculture

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

multi- + culture + -al

multi-: many · culture: shared practices, meanings, and ways of life · -al: related to

Culture drops its final e before -al.

See it in context

The chapter introduces a multicultural history by relating Native, African, Asian, European, and other experiences.
YPT 6 YPT 8–9
The epilogue connects places, names, historical events, and music to a multicultural national story.
YPT 338–340

Ch. 1 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

mun (root)

Root

Meaning: gift, public service

Same-root relatives municipal (adjective) · immunity (noun) · remuneration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mun — gift, public service

mur (root)

Root

Meaning: delay, stay behind

Same-root relatives demure (adjective) · demur (verb) · demurely (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

mur — delay, stay behind

mur (root)

Root

Meaning: wall

Same-root relatives extramural (adjective) · immure (verb) · immured (verb)

Membean word-part reference

mur — wall

mut (root)

Root

Meaning: change, alter

Same-root relatives mutual (adjective) · commute (noun / verb) · commuter (noun)

Membean word-part reference

mut — change, alter

mutualista (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A Mexican American community organization providing mutual aid.

Root & originmut — change or exchange Mutualista is Spanish, built from mutual and -ista. Mutual traces to Latin mutuus, meaning exchanged or reciprocal, related to mutare, to change.

Same-root relativesmutual · mutually · mutuality

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Mutualistas helped members with loans and medical or funeral expenses and often supported labor struggles.
YPT 142

Ch. 7

myth (noun)

Word of the day

A traditional or widely shared story that expresses beliefs about origins, identity, or the world; it is not simply another word for a lie.

Root & originmyth — story Myth comes from Greek mythos, meaning a story or account. Its present meaning depends on context; it can name a traditional story or a widely accepted false belief.

Same-root relativesmythical · mythology · mythological

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer studies a national myth to understand the values it promotes.

Foundations

narc (root)

Root

Meaning: numbness, deadness

Same-root relatives narcotic (noun / adjective) · narcosis (noun) · narcotize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

narc — numbness, deadness

narrat (root)

Root

Meaning: tell

Same-root relatives narrative (noun) · narrate (verb) · narration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

narrat — tell

narrative (noun)

Word of the day

An account that organizes events into a story from a particular perspective.

Root & originnarr — tell Narr comes from Latin narrare, meaning to tell or relate a story.

Same-root relativesnarrate · narrator · narration · narrativize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The two witnesses created different narratives of the same protest.

Foundations

nasc (root)

Root

Meaning: be born

Same-root relatives nascence (noun) · nascent (adjective) · renascence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nasc — be born

nat (root)

RootWord of the day

Meaning: born

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives native (adjective) · naturalization (noun) · nation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nat — born

Nat Turner (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An enslaved Black preacher who led an uprising against slavery in Virginia in 1831.

Root & originPersonal name · Nat Turner Nat Turner is a person’s name, not a vocabulary root. For connected word study, rebellion comes from Latin rebellare, to wage war again, built on bellum, war.

Connected vocabulary · the rebel familyrebel · rebellion · rebellious

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Nat Turner's resistance challenges claims that enslaved people willingly accepted slavery.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

native (adjective / noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Originating in or belonging to a place; when referring to people, context determines whether it means locally born or Indigenous.

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relativesnation · national · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The writer clarifies whether native means Indigenous people or people born in the country.

Ch. 6

6 Irish

nativism (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A political preference for people considered native-born over immigrants, often involving hostility or discriminatory policies toward immigrants.

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relativesnation · national · native · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

native + -ism → nativism

native: born in a place · -ism: belief system or practice

Drop the final e. In United States history, nativism favors people treated as native-born over immigrants.

See it in context

The speech used nativism to blame immigrants for economic problems.

Ch. 6

6 Irish

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

naturalization (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The process through which an immigrant becomes a citizen.

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relativesnation · national · native · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

naturalize + -ation → naturalization

naturalize: admit a person to citizenship · -ation: process

Drop the final e. This legal meaning cannot be predicted from natural alone.

See it in context

Roselia Aguilar took a citizenship oath after immigrating from Mexico.
YPT 332–333

Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

naturalized citizen (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A person born elsewhere who becomes a citizen through a legal process.

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relativesnation · national · native · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

naturalize + -ed; citizen

naturalize: admit a person to citizenship · -ed: completed-action participle · citizen: recognized member of a political community

Naturalized modifies citizen; the phrase names a person who acquired citizenship through a legal process.

See it in context

Irish immigrants classified as white could become naturalized citizens, an option barred to Chinese immigrants in this period.
YPT 119

Ch. 6

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

naturalized citizenship (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Citizenship acquired through a legal process after birth.

Root & originnat — born Nat comes from Latin nasci, meaning to be born, and natus, meaning born. Nation, native, and nature developed from this family.

Same-root relativesnation · national · native · nature · naturalize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

naturalize + -ed; citizen + -ship

naturalize: admit to citizenship · -ed: completed-action participle · citizen: member of a political community · -ship: status

The words form a phrase; they are not one long prefixed word.

See it in context

The epilogue names removal of racial barriers to naturalized citizenship as a historical victory.
YPT 340

Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

nect (root)

Root

Meaning: tie, bind

Same-root relatives connection (noun) · connect (verb) · connectedness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nect — tie, bind

neg (root)

Root

Meaning: deny, say not

Same-root relatives negative (noun / verb / adjective) · negate (verb) · negation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

neg — deny, say not

neo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: new

Words sharing this prefix neolithic (noun / adjective) · neologism (noun) · neon (noun)

Membean word-part reference

neo- — new

nerv (root)

Root

Meaning: vigor, determination

Same-root relatives nervous (adjective) · nerve (noun / verb) · enervate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

nerv — vigor, determination

neur (root)

Root

Meaning: nerve

Same-root relatives neurosis (noun) · neurotic (noun) · neural (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

neur — nerve

nex (root)

Root

Meaning: tied, bound

Same-root relatives annexation (noun) · annex (noun / verb) · connexion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nex — tied, bound

nic (root)

Root

Meaning: harm, injure

Same-root relatives pernicious (adjective) · nuisance (noun) · internecine (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

nic — harm, injure

nihil (root)

Root

Meaning: nothing

Same-root relatives annihilation (noun) · annihilate (verb) · nihilism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nihil — nothing

Nisei (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The second generation: American-born children of Japanese immigrants.

Root & originni / sei — two / generation Nisei is Japanese for second generation: ni means two and sei means generation. The course uses it for the children of Japanese immigrants.

Same-root relativesIssei (first generation) · Sansei (third generation) · Yonsei (fourth generation)

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster

See it in context

Nisei held citizenship by birth but still faced discrimination in schooling and employment.
YPT 209–211

Ch. 10

nobl (root)

Root

Meaning: well known, famous

Same-root relatives noble (noun / adjective) · ennoble (verb) · ennobling (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

nobl — well known, famous

noc (root)

Root

Meaning: harm

Same-root relatives innocent (noun / adjective) · innocence (noun) · innocuous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

noc — harm

nom (root)

Root

Meaning: law, custom

Same-root relatives astronomical (adjective) · anomie (noun) · astronomy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nom — law, custom

nom (root)

Root

Meaning: name

Same-root relatives binomial (noun / adjective) · denomination (noun) · denominational (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

nom — name

non- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: not

Words sharing this prefix nonsense (noun / adjective) · nonfiction (noun) · nonexistent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

non- — not

norm (root)

Root

Meaning: carpenter's square, pattern

Root & originnorm — rule or standard Norm comes from Latin norma, a carpenter’s square used as a guide; its meaning extended to a rule or standard.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives enormous (adjective) · normal (noun / adjective) · norm (noun)

Membean word-part reference

norm — carpenter's square, pattern

not (root)

Root

Meaning: gotten to know, found out

Same-root relatives notice (noun / verb) · notion (noun) · notify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

not — gotten to know, found out

not (root)

Root

Meaning: mark, sign

Same-root relatives note (noun / verb) · notable (noun / adjective) · connotation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

not — mark, sign

nounc (root)

Root

Meaning: messenger, message, report

Same-root relatives announcement (noun) · announce (verb) · pronounce (verb)

Membean word-part reference

nounc — messenger, message, report

nov (root)

Root

Meaning: new

Same-root relatives novel (noun / adjective) · innovation (noun) · novelty (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nov — new

nuanced (adjective)

Word of the day

Showing careful attention to small differences, complexity, or competing explanations.

Root & originnuance — shade Nuance came from French nuance, meaning a shade of color, related to nuer, to shade. Its sense expanded to a small difference in meaning.

Same-root relativesnuance · nuances

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

A nuanced argument explains both shared experiences and important differences.

Foundations

null (root)

Root

Meaning: none

Same-root relatives null (noun / adjective) · nullification (noun) · nullified (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

null — none

numer (root)

Root

Meaning: number

Same-root relatives numerous (adjective) · numerical (adjective) · enumerate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

numer — number

nunc (root)

Root

Meaning: messenger, report

Same-root relatives denunciation (noun) · enunciate (verb) · renunciation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

nunc — messenger, report

nutr (root)

Root

Meaning: nourish

Same-root relatives nutrient (noun / adjective) · nutritional (adjective) · nutritive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

nutr — nourish

ob- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: against, in the way

Words sharing this prefix obstacle (noun) · obvious (adjective) · obstruct (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ob- — against, in the way

ob- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix obtain (verb) · obscure (verb / adjective) · obdurate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ob- — thoroughly

ob- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, toward

Words sharing this prefix objective (adjective) · observe (verb) · obliged (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ob- — to, toward

obliv (root)

Root

Meaning: forget

Same-root relatives oblivious (adjective) · oblivion (noun) · obliviousness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

obliv — forget

oc (root)

Root

Meaning: eye

Same-root relatives ocular (noun / adjective) · monocle (noun) · binoculars (noun)

Membean word-part reference

oc — eye

oc- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix occupation (noun) · occupy (verb) · occlude (verb)

Membean word-part reference

oc- — thoroughly

od (root)

Root

Meaning: song

Same-root relatives melody (noun) · parody (noun) · prosody (noun)

Membean word-part reference

od — song

offic (root)

Root

Meaning: duty

Same-root relatives official (noun / adjective) · office (noun) · officer (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

offic — duty

offshore (adverb)

Chapter vocabulary

To a location in another country, especially for business production.

Root & originshore — edge of land Offshore joins off with shore, a word inherited from Germanic meaning land beside water. The whole English base shore carries the main meaning.

Same-root relativesshore · shoreline · seashore · onshore

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter links manufacturing work moved offshore to fewer jobs for Black industrial workers.
YPT 313

Ch. 15

oint (root)

Root

Meaning: smear with oil

Same-root relatives anoint (verb) · ointment (noun)

Membean word-part reference

oint — smear with oil

ol (root)

Root

Meaning: smell

Same-root relatives olfaction (noun) · olfactory (adjective) · redolence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ol — smell

omin (root)

Root

Meaning: sign, omen

Same-root relatives ominous (adjective) · abominable (adjective) · abominate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

omin — sign, omen

omni- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: all

Words sharing this prefix omniscient (adjective) · omnibus (noun) · omnipotence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

omni- — all

oner (root)

Root

Meaning: burden, load

Same-root relatives exonerate (verb) · onerous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

oner — burden, load

onym (root)

Root

Meaning: name

Same-root relatives anonymous (adjective) · synonym (noun) · anonymity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

onym — name

op (root)

Root

Meaning: eye

Same-root relatives optical (adjective) · myopia (noun) · myopic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

op — eye

op (root)

Root

Meaning: wealth, abundance

Same-root relatives copy (noun / verb) · opulent (adjective) · recopy (verb)

Membean word-part reference

op — wealth, abundance

op- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: to, towards, against

Words sharing this prefix opportunity (noun) · oppose (verb) · opposite (noun)

Membean word-part reference

op- — to, towards, against

oper (root)

Root

Meaning: work

Same-root relatives cooperation (noun) · operate (verb) · operation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

oper — work

opin (root)

Root

Meaning: think, suppose

Same-root relatives opinion (noun) · opinionated (adjective) · opine (verb)

Membean word-part reference

opin — think, suppose

opt (root)

Root

Meaning: wish, choose

Same-root relatives adopt (verb) · option (noun) · adoption (noun)

Membean word-part reference

opt — wish, choose

or (root)

Root

Meaning: rise, begin

Same-root relatives original (noun / adjective) · origin (noun) · orient (verb)

Membean word-part reference

or — rise, begin

or (root)

Root

Meaning: speak

Same-root relatives oral (noun / adjective) · inexorable (adjective) · oration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

or — speak

oram (root)

Root

Meaning: sight, view

Same-root relatives panoramic (adjective) · diorama (noun) · panorama (noun)

Membean word-part reference

oram — sight, view

orb (root)

Root

Meaning: circle

Same-root relatives orb (noun / verb) · orbit (noun / verb) · exorbitance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

orb — circle

ord (root)

Root

Meaning: order, row, series

Same-root relatives order (noun / verb) · ordinary (noun / adjective) · extraordinary (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ord — order, row, series

organ (root)

Root

Meaning: furnished with organs

Same-root relatives organization (noun) · organized (adjective) · organize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

organ — furnished with organs

organization (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A group arranged to pursue shared goals, or the process of arranging people and activities effectively.

Root & originorgan — tool or instrument Organize traces back to Greek organon, meaning a tool or instrument. The family developed meanings about arranging parts to work together.

Same-root relativesorgan · organize · organizer · reorganize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

organize + -ation → organization

organize: arrange people or resources for a purpose · -ation: process or resulting group

Drop the final e.

See it in context

The organization coordinated meetings and collected members' demands.

Ch. 10

10 Japan

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Orientalize (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To portray Asian people or societies through an outsider's stereotypes, often as exotic, inferior, or fundamentally different from the West.

Root & originori — rise Orientalize is built from Oriental, related to Latin orientem, meaning rising, from oriri, to rise. The rising sun linked the term with the east.

Same-root relativesorient · oriental · orientation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The advertisement Orientalizes its subjects by presenting them as a single mysterious and unchanging group.

Ch. 8

8 China

orn (root)

Root

Meaning: decorate

Same-root relatives adorn (verb) · ornament (noun / verb) · adornment (noun)

Membean word-part reference

orn — decorate

ortho- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: right

Words sharing this prefix orthography (noun) · orthodox (adjective) · orthodoxy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ortho- — right

oti (root)

Root

Meaning: leisure

Same-root relatives negotiate (verb) · negotiation (noun) · negotiable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

oti — leisure

over- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: over, above

Words sharing this prefix overpower (verb) · override (noun / verb) · overwhelm (verb)

Membean word-part reference

over- — over, above

overt (root)

Root

Meaning: opened

Same-root relatives overt (adjective) · aperture (noun) · pert (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

overt — opened

oxy (root)

Root

Meaning: sharp, keen

Same-root relatives oxygen (noun) · paroxysm (noun) · oxygenate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

oxy — sharp, keen

pac (root)

Root

Meaning: peace

Same-root relatives pacific (noun / adjective) · pacify (verb) · pacification (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pac — peace

pact (root)

Root

Meaning: fasten, drive in

Same-root relatives compact (noun / verb / adjective) · compacted (verb) · compactness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pact — fasten, drive in

pall (root)

Root

Meaning: be pale

Same-root relatives appalling (noun / adjective) · pallid (adjective) · pallor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pall — be pale

palp (root)

Root

Meaning: stroke, caress, touch

Same-root relatives palpable (adjective) · impalpable (adjective) · palpate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

palp — stroke, caress, touch

pan (root)

Root

Meaning: bread

Same-root relatives company (noun / verb) · companion (noun) · accompaniment (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pan — bread

pan- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: all

Words sharing this prefix pandemic (noun) · panoramic (adjective) · pantheism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pan- — all

paper son (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

An immigrant using a false claim of being the son of a Chinese American citizen to seek admission.

Root & originpaper — writing material Paper came through French and Latin from Greek papyros, the plant used for an early writing material. In paper son, paper points to documents used to claim a family relationship.

Same-root relativespaper · paperwork · paperless · papyrus

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some young men memorized detailed family information before questioning at Angel Island.
YPT 161 YPT 165–166

Ch. 8

par (root)

Root

Meaning: come to sight

Same-root relatives apparent (adjective) · appear (verb) · transparent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

par — come to sight

par (root)

Root

Meaning: equal

Same-root relatives compare (verb) · comparison (noun) · comparative (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

par — equal

par (root)

Root

Meaning: make, prepare

Same-root relatives separate (noun / verb / adjective) · prepare (verb) · apparatus (noun)

Membean word-part reference

par — make, prepare

para- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: beside, alongside

Words sharing this prefix paragraph (noun) · parallel (noun / verb / adjective) · parameter (noun)

Membean word-part reference

para- — beside, alongside

paragraph (noun)

Word of the day

A group of connected sentences that develops a central idea within a piece of writing.

Root & origingraph — write Paragraph combines Greek para, beside, with graphein, to write. A paragraphos was a written mark beside text that indicated a division.

Same-root relativesparagraphing · graphic · autograph · biography

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

This paragraph supports its claim with evidence and explains why that evidence matters.

Documents A

parl (root)

Root

Meaning: talk, speak

Same-root relatives parlor (noun) · parliament (noun) · parlance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

parl — talk, speak

part (root)

Root

Meaning: part

Root & originpart — portion Part comes from Latin pars, with the related form partis, meaning a piece or share.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives part (noun / verb / adverb) · party (noun / verb) · apart (adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

part — part

pass (root)

Root

Meaning: step, pace

Same-root relatives passage (noun) · pass (noun / verb / adjective) · passenger (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pass — step, pace

pass (root)

Root

Meaning: suffer, endure

Same-root relatives passionate (adjective) · passive (noun / adjective) · passivity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pass — suffer, endure

past (root)

Root

Meaning: dough, paste

Same-root relatives paste (noun / verb) · pastel (noun / adjective) · pasty (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

past — dough, paste

past (root)

Root

Meaning: feed

Same-root relatives pastor (noun) · pasture (noun / verb) · pastoral (noun)

Membean word-part reference

past — feed

path (root)

Root

Meaning: feeling, disease

Same-root relatives sympathy (noun) · sympathize (verb) · sympathetic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

path — feeling, disease

patr (root)

Root

Meaning: father

Same-root relatives patriotism (noun) · patriotic (adjective) · patron (noun)

Membean word-part reference

patr — father

pecc (root)

Root

Meaning: stumble, sin

Same-root relatives impeccable (adjective) · peccadillo (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pecc — stumble, sin

pecuni (root)

Root

Meaning: money

Same-root relatives pecuniary (adjective) · impecunious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pecuni — money

ped (root)

Root

Meaning: child

Same-root relatives encyclopedia (noun) · pedagogical (adjective) · pedantic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ped — child

ped (root)

Root

Meaning: foot

Same-root relatives expedition (noun) · impede (verb) · expedite (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ped — foot

pel (root)

Root

Meaning: push

Root & originpel / puls — push or drive Pel and puls come from Latin pellere, meaning to push or drive, and its related form pulsus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives compel (verb) · compelling (adjective) · repel (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pel — push

pen (root)

Root

Meaning: penalty

Same-root relatives penalty (noun) · penalize (verb) · penance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pen — penalty

pen- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: almost, nearly

Words sharing this prefix peninsula (noun) · penumbra (noun) · penultimate (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pen- — almost, nearly

pend (root)

Root

Meaning: hang, weigh

Root & originpend / pens — hang or weigh This family connects Latin pendere, to hang, with pendere, to weigh or pay. Pens is a related form in words about weighing and payment.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives independent (adjective) · dependent (noun / adjective) · spend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pend — hang, weigh

pens (root)

Root

Meaning: hang, weigh

Root & originpend / pens — hang or weigh This family connects Latin pendere, to hang, with pendere, to weigh or pay. Pens is a related form in words about weighing and payment.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives expensive (adjective) · compensation (noun) · inexpensive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pens — hang, weigh

per- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix persuasive (adjective) · perform (verb) · persist (verb)

Membean word-part reference

per- — thoroughly

per- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: through

Words sharing this prefix permit (noun / verb) · permeate (verb) · perish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

per- — through

peri- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: around, near, about

Words sharing this prefix period (noun) · periodic (adjective) · periodical (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

peri- — around, near, about

person (root)

Root

Meaning: character

Same-root relatives personnel (noun) · personality (noun) · impersonal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

person — character

persuasive (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Able to influence what people believe or decide through reasons, language, or presentation.

Root & originsuad / suas — urge or advise Persuasive traces back to Latin persuadere, to convince, built on suadere, to advise or urge, and its related form suasus.

Same-root relativespersuade · persuasion · dissuade · dissuasion

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Abolitionists made a persuasive challenge to slavery by connecting the experiences of enslaved people to the principle of human equality.

pet (root)

Root

Meaning: seek, attack, go for

Same-root relatives competition (noun) · petition (noun / verb) · repetitive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pet — seek, attack, go for

phan (root)

Root

Meaning: cause to appear, show

Same-root relatives phantom (noun / adjective) · epiphany (noun) · cellophane (noun)

Membean word-part reference

phan — cause to appear, show

phas (root)

Root

Meaning: show

Same-root relatives emphasis (noun) · phase (noun) · emphasize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

phas — show

phem (root)

Root

Meaning: saying, speech

Same-root relatives euphemism (noun) · blaspheme (verb) · blasphemous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

phem — saying, speech

phil (root)

Root

Meaning: love

Same-root relatives philosophy (noun) · philosopher (noun) · philanthropic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

phil — love

phon (root)

Root

Meaning: voice, sound

Same-root relatives telephone (noun / verb) · phone (noun / verb) · symphonic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

phon — voice, sound

phor (root)

Root

Meaning: a carrying

Same-root relatives metaphor (noun) · euphoria (noun) · euphoric (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

phor — a carrying

phras (root)

Root

Meaning: explain

Same-root relatives phrase (noun / verb) · paraphrase (verb) · phraseology (noun)

Membean word-part reference

phras — explain

phyt (root)

Root

Meaning: plant

Same-root relatives neophyte (noun) · saprophyte (noun) · zoophyte (noun)

Membean word-part reference

phyt — plant

pi (root)

Root

Meaning: cleanse, make honest

Same-root relatives impious (adjective) · expiate (verb) · piety (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pi — cleanse, make honest

pict (root)

Root

Meaning: paint, portray

Same-root relatives depict (verb) · picture (noun / verb) · pictorial (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pict — paint, portray

picture brides (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Women whose marriages were arranged across distance, often through exchanged photographs.

Root & originpict — paint or picture For word study, focus on picture. Depict comes from Latin depingere, meaning to portray, related to pingere, to paint, and its form pictus.

Same-root relatives of picturedepict · depiction · picture · pictorial · pictograph

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some Japanese women entered the United States to join husbands they had not yet met.
YPT 190–191 YPT 213–214

Ch. 10

Pidgin English (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The shared plantation speech the chapter describes as combining English with elements of several languages.

Root & originpidgin — a contact-language word Pidgin developed from a Chinese pronunciation of English business in language used for trade. Hawaiʻi’s language history gives Pidgin its local meaning.

Same-root relativespidgin · pidginize · pidginization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Workers used it to communicate across ethnic communities and build a sense of belonging in Hawaii.
YPT 201

Ch. 10

pil (root)

Root

Meaning: pile, pillar

Same-root relatives compile (verb) · pillar (noun) · pillory (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

pil — pile, pillar

pin (root)

Root

Meaning: feather

Same-root relatives pinnacle (noun / verb) · pinnate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pin — feather

piqu (root)

Root

Meaning: pierce, prick

Same-root relatives pique (noun / verb) · piquant (adjective) · pick (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

piqu — pierce, prick

pir (root)

Root

Meaning: attempt, attack

Same-root relatives empirical (adjective) · empiricism (noun) · piratical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pir — attempt, attack

pit (root)

Root

Meaning: pity, right conduct

Same-root relatives pitiable (adjective) · pity (noun / verb) · piteous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pit — pity, right conduct

pith (root)

Root

Meaning: pit, kernel

Same-root relatives pith (noun / verb) · pithy (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pith — pit, kernel

plac (root)

Root

Meaning: please, suit, be acceptable

Same-root relatives placid (adjective) · implacable (adjective) · complacency (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plac — please, suit, be acceptable

plaint (root)

Root

Meaning: mourn for, beat

Same-root relatives complaint (noun) · plaint (noun) · plaintiff (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plaint — mourn for, beat

plais (root)

Root

Meaning: please

Same-root relatives complaisance (noun) · complaisant (adjective) · please (verb / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

plais — please

plant (root)

Root

Meaning: plant, sprout

Same-root relatives plantation (noun) · plant (noun / verb) · planter (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plant — plant, sprout

plantation (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A large farm relying here on an enslaved workforce.

Root & originplant — sprout or set in the ground Plant comes from Latin planta, a shoot or cutting. Plantation developed from planting to land used for growing crops.

Same-root relativesplant · planter · planting · transplant

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes long cotton-field workdays and owners’ systems of discipline on Southern plantations.
YPT 88–89

Ch. 5

plas (root)

Root

Meaning: form, mold

Same-root relatives plasma (noun) · cytoplasm (noun) · plaster (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

plas — form, mold

plat (root)

Root

Meaning: flat, broad

Same-root relatives platform (noun) · plate (noun / verb) · platinum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plat — flat, broad

plaud (root)

Root

Meaning: applaud, clap

Same-root relatives applaud (verb) · plaudit (noun) · explode (verb)

Membean word-part reference

plaud — applaud, clap

plaus (root)

Root

Meaning: applaud, strike

Same-root relatives applause (noun) · plausible (adjective) · implausibility (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plaus — applaud, strike

ple (root)

Root

Meaning: fill

Same-root relatives implementation (noun) · supplement (verb) · complement (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

ple — fill

plen (root)

Root

Meaning: full

Same-root relatives plenty (noun / adverb) · plentiful (adjective) · replenish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

plen — full

plet (root)

Root

Meaning: fill

Same-root relatives completely (adverb) · incomplete (adjective) · completion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plet — fill

pli (root)

Root

Meaning: fold, bend

Same-root relatives plight (noun / verb) · simplify (verb) · simplistic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pli — fold, bend

plic/plex (root)

RootWord of the day

Historical roots connected to folding (plic) or entwining (plex); they help connect ideas of complexity and involvement.

Root & originplic / plex — fold or weave Plic comes from Latin plicare, to fold; plex connects to plectere, to weave or braid. These related forms developed words about folding, combining, and complexity.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives complex (adjective) · complexity (noun) · complicate (verb) · implication (noun) · application (noun)

See it in context

The root plex in complex suggests parts folded or woven together.
The Nisei understood their identities as a complex combination of Japanese and American cultures.
com- (together) + plex (entwine), a historical analysis of complex.
YPT 212

Ch. 3 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part references

plor (root)

Root

Meaning: weep over

Same-root relatives explore (verb) · exploration (noun) · deplorable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

plor — weep over

ploy (root)

Root

Meaning: fold

Same-root relatives employment (noun) · unemployment (noun) · employed (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ploy — fold

plumb (root)

Root

Meaning: lead

Same-root relatives plumber (noun) · plunge (noun / verb) · aplomb (noun)

Membean word-part reference

plumb — lead

plus (root)

Root

Meaning: more

Same-root relatives surplus (noun / adjective) · nonplus (verb) · nonplussed (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

plus — more

pod (root)

Root

Meaning: foot

Same-root relatives tripod (noun) · antipodal (noun / adjective) · antipodes (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pod — foot

pogrom (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

An organized violent attack or massacre targeting a community, especially Jews.

Root & origingrom — devastation Pogrom was borrowed from Russian, where pogrom refers to devastation and gromit means to destroy violently.

Same-root relativespogroms

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes Russian Jews migrating to escape pogroms.
YPT 12

Ch. 1

pogroms (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Organized outbreaks of persecution and violence against Jews.

Root & origingrom — devastation Pogrom was borrowed from Russian, where pogrom refers to devastation and gromit means to destroy violently.

Same-root relativespogrom

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Pogroms destroyed lives, shops, and synagogues and pushed families to leave Russia.
YPT 216–217

Ch. 11

point (root)

Root

Meaning: point

Same-root relatives point (noun / verb) · pointed (adjective) · disappointed (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

point — point

pol (root)

Root

Meaning: axis

Same-root relatives pole (noun / verb) · polar (adjective) · polarity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pol — axis

pol (root)

Root

Meaning: smooth, refine, polish

Same-root relatives polish (noun / verb / adjective) · polite (adjective) · extrapolation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pol — smooth, refine, polish

policy (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A rule, plan, or course of action adopted by a government, organization, or other authority.

Root & originpolis — city or state Policy in this course comes through French and Latin from Greek politeia, meaning government or citizenship, related to polis, meaning a city.

Same-root relativespolity · politics · political

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay connects the government's stated policy to its effects on daily life.

Ch. 9

9 Frontier

polis / polit (root)

RootWord of the day

Related Greek forms connected to a city and its citizens; through words for government, they help explain policy as a chosen course for managing affairs.

Root & originpolit — city or community Polit traces back to Greek polis, meaning a city, through words about citizens and public affairs.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives political (adjective) · politics (noun) · metropolitan (noun / adjective)

Course spelling: pol

Word-part references

Membean word-part reference

polit — citizen

poll tax (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A tax required as a condition of voting.

Root & origintax — assess or charge Tax came through French from Latin taxare, meaning to assess or judge a value. Taxation names the process or system.

Same-root relativestax · taxation · taxable · taxpayer

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Texas used a poll tax among the measures designed to limit Mexican political participation.
YPT 134

Ch. 7

poly- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: many

Words sharing this prefix polynomial (noun / adjective) · polychromatic (adjective) · polyester (noun)

Membean word-part reference

poly- — many

pon (root)

Root

Meaning: put, place

Same-root relatives opponent (noun) · component (noun) · postpone (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pon — put, place

ponder (root)

Root

Meaning: weigh, consider

Same-root relatives ponder (verb) · ponderous (adjective) · imponderable (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ponder — weigh, consider

por (root)

Root

Meaning: passage

Same-root relatives porous (adjective) · pore (noun / verb) · osteoporosis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

por — passage

port (root)

Root

Meaning: carry

Root & originport — carry Port comes from Latin portare, meaning to carry. The things carried can be goods, people, or information.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives support (noun / verb) · important (adjective) · report (verb)

Membean word-part reference

port — carry

port (root)

Root

Meaning: harbor, port

Root & originport — harbor Opportunity comes from Latin opportunus, favorable or suitable, originally connected with coming toward a harbor. This port comes from portus, harbor, not portare, to carry.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives port (noun) · seaport (noun) · airport (noun)

Membean word-part reference

port — harbor, port

port (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root meaning carry; it appears in words about moving goods or people across boundaries.

Root & originport — carry Port comes from Latin portare, meaning to carry. The things carried can be goods, people, or information.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives transport (noun / verb) · import (noun / verb) · export (noun / verb) · deport (verb) · portable (noun / adjective)

See it in context

In transport, the root port helps express the idea of carrying something from one place to another.
Railroad transportation accelerated migration from Mexico by linking interior communities with the United States border.
transport + -ation; trans- (across) + port (carry) explains the verb base.
YPT 239

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

portion (root)

Root

Meaning: part, share, division

Same-root relatives proportion (noun / verb) · portion (noun) · proportional (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

portion — part, share, division

pos (root)

Root

Meaning: pause, temporary halt

Same-root relatives purpose (noun / verb) · repose (noun / verb) · poseur (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pos — pause, temporary halt

pos (root)

Root

Meaning: put, place

Same-root relatives expose (noun / verb) · impose (verb) · oppose (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pos — put, place

posit (root)

Root

Meaning: placed, put

Root & originposit — place Posit comes from Latin ponere, meaning to place, and its related form positus. Its history became linked with the French pose family.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives position (noun / verb) · opposition (noun) · opposite (noun)

Membean word-part reference

posit — placed, put

possess (root)

Root

Meaning: have or take control of

Same-root relatives dispossess (verb) · possession (noun) · possessed (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

possess — have or take control of

post- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: after

Words sharing this prefix postwar (adjective) · postpone (verb) · posterior (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

post- — after

postulat (root)

Root

Meaning: demand

Same-root relatives postulate (verb) · expostulate (verb) · expostulation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

postulat — demand

pot (root)

Root

Meaning: drink

Same-root relatives potable (noun / adjective) · potion (noun) · poison (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

pot — drink

potent (root)

Root

Meaning: capable, powerful

Same-root relatives potential (noun) · potent (adjective) · potentiality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

potent — capable, powerful

pound (root)

Root

Meaning: specify, place

Same-root relatives compound (noun / verb / adjective) · expound (verb) · compounded (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pound — specify, place

pover (root)

Root

Meaning: poor

Same-root relatives poverty (noun) · impoverished (adjective) · impoverish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pover — poor

power (noun)

Word of the day

The ability to influence people, decisions, or access to resources.

Root & originpower — be able Power came through French from Latin posse, meaning to be able. English adds parts to the whole base power.

Same-root relativespowerful · powerless · empower · empowerment

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Control over land gave the landowners economic and political power.

Foundations

pract (root)

Root

Meaning: do

Same-root relatives practical (adjective) · practice (noun / verb) · impractical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pract — do

pre- (prefix)

Prefix

Before; signals an earlier time or an action taken in advance.

Word-part originpre- Latin prae means before. Pre- places something earlier in time or order. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix predict (verb) · prediction (noun) · prejudice (noun) · precaution (noun) · precede (verb)

See it in context

Frederick Douglass predicted that African Americans would become fully included in the American people.
pre- (before) + dict (say) + -ed, a historical root analysis.
YPT 94

Ch. 1 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 11 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

pre- — before, in front

prec (root)

Root

Meaning: having prayed or entreated

Same-root relatives precarious (adjective) · imprecation (noun) · deprecatory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

prec — having prayed or entreated

preci (root)

Root

Meaning: worth, price

Same-root relatives appreciate (verb) · appreciation (noun) · precious (adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

preci — worth, price

pred (root)

Root

Meaning: plunder

Same-root relatives depredation (noun) · predation (noun) · predator (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pred — plunder

pregn (root)

Root

Meaning: seize hold of

Same-root relatives impregnable (adjective) · entrepreneur (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pregn — seize hold of

prehend (root)

Root

Meaning: seize

Same-root relatives comprehend (verb) · apprehend (verb) · misapprehend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

prehend — seize

prehens (root)

Root

Meaning: seized hold of

Same-root relatives comprehensive (noun / adjective) · apprehension (noun) · comprehension (noun)

Membean word-part reference

prehens — seized hold of

press (root)

RootWord of the day

A root connected to pressing; its historical family includes words about burdens, restraint, and the use of power.

Root & originpress — press Press comes from Latin premere, meaning to press; pressus is a related form. Pressure can be physical or social.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives oppress (verb) · oppression (noun) · repress (verb) · suppress (verb) · depression (noun)

See it in context

Takaki connects large-scale Irish emigration to a long history of English oppression.
oppress + -ion; press connects the word historically to pressing down or burdening.
YPT 106

Ch. 1 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

press — press

prim (root)

Root

Meaning: first

Same-root relatives primitive (noun / adjective) · primary (noun) · primarily (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

prim — first

prim (root)

Root

Meaning: press

Same-root relatives reprimand (noun / verb) · imprimatur (noun) · print (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

prim — press

princip (root)

Root

Meaning: chief

Same-root relatives principle (noun) · principal (noun / adjective) · principality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

princip — chief

prior (root)

Root

Meaning: previous, in front

Same-root relatives prior (noun / adjective) · priority (noun) · prioritize (verb)

Membean word-part reference

prior — previous, in front

pris (root)

Root

Meaning: seize hold of

Same-root relatives prisoner (noun) · prison (noun) · surprise (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

pris — seize hold of

priv (root)

Root

Meaning: without, individual

Same-root relatives private (noun / adjective) · deprive (verb) · privilege (noun)

Membean word-part reference

priv — without, individual

pro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: before

Words sharing this prefix provide (verb) · prominent (adjective) · prophet (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pro- — before

pro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: forward

Words sharing this prefix progress (noun) · profit (noun) · problem (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pro- — forward

proach (root)

Root

Meaning: near

Same-root relatives approach (verb) · approaching (noun / adjective) · reproach (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

proach — near

prob (root)

Root

Meaning: prove, test, approve

Same-root relatives probability (noun) · probable (noun / adjective) · probe (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

prob — prove, test, approve

profit (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The financial gain left after the costs of producing or selling something are paid.

Root & originprofic — advance or make progress Profit came through French from Latin profectus, meaning progress or success, related to proficere, to advance. Its modern financial sense concerns gains beyond costs.

Same-root relativesprofitable · profitability · unprofitable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The business increased its profit by reducing labor costs.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

profitable (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Producing more money than the costs of an activity; bringing financial gain to someone.

Same-root relativesprofit · profitability · unprofitable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Tobacco cultivation could be profitable for colonists, increasing their demand for both workers and Native land.

progress (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Movement toward a goal or a change judged to be an improvement.

Root & origingress — step or go Gress comes from Latin gradi, meaning to step, and its related form gressus.

Same-root relativesprogressive · aggression · aggressive · regress

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay asks who benefited from what officials called progress.

Ch. 4 Ch. 9

4 Road · 9 Frontier

prol (root)

Root

Meaning: offspring

Same-root relatives proliferation (noun) · proletariat (noun) · prolific (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

prol — offspring

prompt (root)

Root

Meaning: ready

Same-root relatives prompt (noun / verb / adjective) · impromptu (noun) · promptness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

prompt — ready

prop (root)

Root

Meaning: proper, fitting, one's own

Same-root relatives property (noun) · proper (adjective) · appropriation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

prop — proper, fitting, one's own

propiti (root)

Root

Meaning: pleasingly inclined

Same-root relatives propitious (adjective) · propitiate (verb) · propitiation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

propiti — pleasingly inclined

prospector (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person searching for valuable minerals such as gold.

Root & originspect — look Spect comes from Latin specere, meaning to look. It connects literal looking with viewpoints and judgments.

Same-root relativesinspect · respect · spectator · perspective · prospect

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Many Chinese gold miners worked as independent prospectors or formed small companies.
YPT 149

Ch. 8

prot- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: first

Words sharing this prefix protein (noun) · protozoa (noun) · prototype (noun)

Membean word-part reference

prot- — first

providence (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Divine guidance or care, especially the belief that God directs events.

Root & originvid — see Providence comes from Latin providentia, foresight, from providere, to see ahead. Vid comes from videre, meaning to see.

Same-root relativesprovide · provision · provident

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The speech appeals to providence to present the nation's expansion as divinely intended.

Ch. 4

4 Road

proxim (root)

Root

Meaning: next, nearest

Same-root relatives approximate (verb / adjective) · approximation (noun) · proximate (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

proxim — next, nearest

prud (root)

Root

Meaning: foresee

Same-root relatives jurisprudence (noun) · prudence (noun) · imprudence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

prud — foresee

pseud- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: false

Words sharing this prefix pseudo (noun / adjective) · pseudonym (noun) · pseudonymous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pseud- — false

publ (root)

Root

Meaning: people

Same-root relatives public (noun / adjective) · republic (noun) · publication (noun)

Membean word-part reference

publ — people

public accommodations (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Facilities and services used by the public, such as hotels and buses.

Root & originmod — measure or fit Accommodation comes from Latin accommodare, to make suitable, built on commodus, suitable, related to modus, a measure or manner.

Same-root relativesaccommodate · accommodation · commodious · mode

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Civil rights changes in 1964 and 1965 outlawed discrimination in public accommodations.
YPT 311

Ch. 15

pud (root)

Root

Meaning: be ashamed

Same-root relatives repudiate (verb) · impudent (adjective) · impudence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

pud — be ashamed

pugn (root)

Root

Meaning: fight

Same-root relatives repugnance (noun) · impugn (verb) · pugnacious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pugn — fight

puls (root)

Root

Meaning: pushed

Root & originpel / puls — push or drive Pel and puls come from Latin pellere, meaning to push or drive, and its related form pulsus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives compulsion (noun) · expulsion (noun) · repulsive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

puls — pushed

pun (root)

Root

Meaning: punish

Same-root relatives punishing (adjective) · punitive (adjective) · punish (verb)

Membean word-part reference

pun — punish

punct (root)

Root

Meaning: pointed, stabbed, pierced

Same-root relatives compunction (noun) · punctuality (noun) · punctuate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

punct — pointed, stabbed, pierced

pung (root)

Root

Meaning: point, pierce, prick

Same-root relatives expunge (verb) · pungency (noun) · pungent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pung — point, pierce, prick

pur- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix purchase (verb) · pursue (verb) · pursuant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

pur- — thoroughly

purg (root)

Root

Meaning: make clean

Same-root relatives expurgation (noun) · purgatory (noun) · purge (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

purg — make clean

put (root)

Root

Meaning: think, consider

Same-root relatives dispute (noun) · deputy (noun) · reputation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

put — think, consider

putr (root)

Root

Meaning: rotten, stinking, decaying

Same-root relatives putrefaction (noun) · putrefy (verb) · putrescent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

putr — rotten, stinking, decaying

qu (root)

Root

Meaning: who, what, which

Same-root relatives quip (noun / verb) · quorum (noun) · kickshaw (noun)

Membean word-part reference

qu — who, what, which

quaint (root)

Root

Meaning: know, learn

Same-root relatives acquaintance (noun) · quaint (adjective) · acquaint (verb)

Membean word-part reference

quaint — know, learn

qual (root)

Root

Meaning: of what kind?

Same-root relatives quality (noun) · qualify (verb) · disqualify (verb)

Membean word-part reference

qual — of what kind?

quant (root)

Root

Meaning: how much

Same-root relatives quantity (noun) · quantify (verb) · quantum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

quant — how much

quer (root)

Root

Meaning: complain, protest

Same-root relatives querulous (adjective) · quarrel (noun / verb) · quarrelsome (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

quer — complain, protest

quest (root)

Root

Meaning: ask, seek

Same-root relatives question (noun / verb) · conquest (noun) · request (verb)

Membean word-part reference

quest — ask, seek

quiesc (root)

Root

Meaning: rest

Same-root relatives acquiescence (noun) · acquiesce (verb) · quiescent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

quiesc — rest

quiet (root)

Root

Meaning: rested, stilled, calmed

Same-root relatives quiet (noun / verb / adjective / adverb) · disquiet (noun / verb) · disquieting (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

quiet — rested, stilled, calmed

quir (root)

Root

Meaning: seek, strive for

Same-root relatives required (adjective) · requirement (noun) · require (verb)

Membean word-part reference

quir — seek, strive for

quisit (root)

Root

Meaning: seek, ask

Same-root relatives acquisition (noun) · exquisite (adjective) · requisition (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

quisit — seek, ask

quit (root)

Root

Meaning: rest, be still, stay calm

Same-root relatives quite (adverb) · quit (verb) · acquit (verb)

Membean word-part reference

quit — rest, be still, stay calm

quota (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A fixed numerical limit on admission.

Root & originquot — how many Quota comes from Latin quota, used for a proportional share and related to quot, meaning how many.

Same-root relativesquotas · quotient

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The national-origin system limited how many immigrants from each country could enter in a year.
YPT 318

Ch. 16

quotas (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Numerical limits on admission or entry.

Root & originquot — how many Quota comes from Latin quota, used for a proportional share and related to quot, meaning how many.

Same-root relativesquota · quotient

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The 1924 immigration law used nationality quotas tied to older population figures.
YPT 232

Ch. 11

race (noun)

Word of the day

A socially constructed way of grouping people using perceived ancestry and physical traits.

Root & originrace — group or lineage Race in this course came through French race, referring to lineage or a group. Its earlier origin is uncertain; it is unrelated to race meaning a running contest.

Same-root relativesracial · racism · racist · multiracial · racialize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay explains how laws helped create and enforce racial categories.

Foundations

racialize (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To assign racial meaning to people or differences and treat that meaning as a basis for status or treatment.

Same-root relativesracial · racism · racist · multiracial

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

When exclusion campaigns presented Chinese workers as a permanently foreign racial group, they helped racialize a conflict over jobs and belonging.

racism (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Beliefs, practices, or institutions that create or maintain unequal treatment or power based on racial categories.

Same-root relativesracial · racist · multiracial · racialize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The analysis identifies racism in both public arguments and discriminatory rules.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

rad (root)

Root

Meaning: ray

Same-root relatives radio (noun / verb / adjective) · radiation (noun) · radar (noun)

Membean word-part reference

rad — ray

radic (root)

Root

Meaning: root

Same-root relatives radical (noun) · radically (adverb) · eradicate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

radic — root

ranc (root)

Root

Meaning: be rotten, stink

Same-root relatives rancor (noun) · rancid (adjective) · rancorous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ranc — be rotten, stink

rap (root)

Root

Meaning: snatch, grab, seize

Same-root relatives rapid (noun / adjective) · rapacious (adjective) · rapture (noun)

Membean word-part reference

rap — snatch, grab, seize

rar (root)

Root

Meaning: loose-knit, spaced thinly

Same-root relatives rarefy (verb) · rarefied (adjective) · rarefaction (noun)

Example word references

Membean word-part reference

rar — loose-knit, spaced thinly

ras (root)

Root

Meaning: scrape, scratch

Same-root relatives erase (verb) · rascal (noun) · abrasion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ras — scrape, scratch

rat (root)

Root

Meaning: think

Same-root relatives ratify (verb) · rationale (noun) · rate (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

rat — think

ratify (verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

To give formal approval to an agreement or proposed measure through an authorized process.

Root & originrat — settled or approved Ratify comes from Latin ratus, meaning settled or approved, plus a form of facere, to make.

Same-root relativesratified · ratification · ratifier

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The required governments had to ratify the treaty before it took effect.
The chapter describes interference that prevented representative Cherokee participation in a treaty-ratification meeting.
YPT 75

Ch. 4

4 Road

rationale (noun)

Word of the day

The reasons or logic offered to explain a decision or claim.

Root & originration — reckoning or reasoning Rationale comes from Latin rationalis, meaning connected with reason, from ratio, meaning reckoning or reasoning.

Same-root relativesreason · rational · rationality · irrational

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The historian compares the stated rationale for the policy with its effects.

Foundations

rav (root)

Root

Meaning: snatch, grab, seize

Same-root relatives ravage (verb) · ravaged (adjective) · ravenous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

rav — snatch, grab, seize

re (root)

Root

Meaning: thing

Same-root relatives reality (noun) · really (adverb) · real (noun / adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

re — thing

re- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: back, again

Words sharing this prefix resist (verb) · remove (verb) · respect (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

re- — back, again

re- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: thoroughly

Words sharing this prefix required (adjective) · resource (noun) · research (verb)

Membean word-part reference

re- — thoroughly

re- (prefix)

Prefix

Again or back; often signals repetition, restoration, or a return.

Word-part originre- Latin re- means back or again. English uses it to form many words about repeating or returning. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix reorganize (verb) · reorganization (noun) · reconstruction (proper noun) · repay (verb) · remarry (verb)

See it in context

The Indian Reorganization Act changed the direction of federal policy by ending allotment.
re- (again) + organization; the law reorganized federal policy toward Native nations.
YPT 177

Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 9 Ch. 12

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

rebellion (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Organized resistance or an uprising against established authority.

Root & originbell — war Rebellion comes from Latin rebellare, to wage war again, with re-, again, and bellum, meaning war.

Same-root relativesrebel · rebellious · belligerent · bellicose

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Bacon’s Rebellion challenged Virginia’s government when armed rebels marched on Jamestown, drove Berkeley away, and burned the settlement.

(YPT 57)

Reconstruction (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The period after the U.S. Civil War, usually dated 1865–1877, when the nation rebuilt and contested freedom, citizenship, rights, and political power after slavery.

Root & originstruct — build Struct comes from Latin struere, meaning to build or arrange parts together.

Same-root relativesstructure · construct · instruction · destruction · infrastructure

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

re- + construct + -ion

re-: again · construct: build or arrange · -ion: process or result

With a capital R, Reconstruction names the period of rebuilding and political struggle after the Civil War.

See it in context

The essay compares the possibilities created during Reconstruction with efforts to restrict them.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

rect (root)

Root

Meaning: ruled, guided, put right

Root & originrect — straight or right Rect comes from Latin regere, to guide or rule, and rectus, meaning straight or right.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives direct (verb / adjective / adverb) · direction (noun) · director (noun)

Membean word-part reference

rect — ruled, guided, put right

red- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: back, again

Words sharing this prefix redeem (verb) · redundant (adjective) · redound (verb)

Membean word-part reference

red- — back, again

refugee (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person who flees a homeland because of danger such as war or persecution.

Root & originfug — flee Refugee came through French réfugié, someone who took refuge, ultimately from Latin fugere, meaning to flee.

Same-root relativesrefuge · fugitive · refuge-seeker

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter includes people who fled wars in Vietnam and Afghanistan.
YPT 15 YPT 20
Vietnamese refugees fled war and its aftermath, while Afghan refugees fled conflict in another region.
YPT 320–322 YPT 324–325

Ch. 1 Ch. 16

reg (root)

Root

Meaning: rule, guide, direct

Same-root relatives region (noun) · regiment (noun / verb) · regulate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

reg — rule, guide, direct

remedi (root)

Root

Meaning: cure

Same-root relatives remedial (adjective) · remediable (adjective) · remediation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

remedi — cure

removal (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The act of taking someone or something away from a place or position; in this course, it can refer to forced Indigenous displacement.

Root & originmove / mot — move Move and mot trace back to Latin movere, meaning to move, and its related form motus.

Same-root relativesmovement · motion · motive · motivation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

remove + -al → removal

remove: take away or force to leave · -al: action or result; noun suffix

Drop the final e. This -al forms a noun, unlike the adjective suffix in cultural.

See it in context

The account follows families who resisted removal from their homelands.

Ch. 4

4 Road

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

repatriation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The return of a person to a country treated as their homeland or country of citizenship; it may be voluntary or forced.

Root & originpatr — father or homeland Repatriation comes from Latin repatriare, to return to one’s country, from patria, meaning homeland, related to pater, meaning father.

Same-root relativespatriot · patriotic · repatriate · expatriate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

When studying repatriation, ask who was sent away, whether they consented, and how their citizenship was treated.
The 1930s campaign removed Mexican families, including children who were US citizens.
YPT 249 YPT 252–253

Ch. 12

12 Mexico

repression (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The use of authority, force, or restrictions to suppress people's rights, actions, or opposition.

Root & originpress — press Press comes from Latin premere, meaning to press; pressus is a related form. Pressure can be physical or social.

Same-root relativespressure · oppression · expression · compression

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

repress + -ion

repress: restrain or put down through authority · -ion: action or process

See it in context

Political repression made it dangerous to criticize the government openly.

Ch. 11

11 Russian Jews

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

reservation (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Land set aside by the federal government for Native people.

Root & originserv — keep or guard Reservation comes from Latin reservare, to keep back, with servare, meaning to keep or guard. This serv differs from servire, to serve.

Same-root relativesreserve · preserve · conserve · conservation

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

reserve + -ation → reservation

reserve: set apart or keep · -ation: action or result

Drop the final e. Reservation belongs to the reserve family, not the serve/servant family.

See it in context

Under multiple threats, many Pawnee moved to a reservation seeking protection.
YPT 80

Ch. 4

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

resist (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To oppose an action, demand, or system, or act to prevent its effects.

Root & originsist — stand Resist comes from Latin resistere, to stand against or stop, built on sistere, meaning to stand or take a stand.

Same-root relativesresistance · resistant · irresistible

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Enslaved people could resist slavery by escaping, refusing demands, or helping others seek freedom.

responsibility (noun)

Word of the day

A duty to act or a person's share of accountability for an action or result.

Root & originspond / spons — pledge or answer Spond and spons come from Latin spondere, meaning to promise or pledge. Respondere meant to answer in return.

Same-root relativesrespond · response · responsible · sponsor

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

responsible + -ity → responsibility

responsible: answerable for actions or duties · -ity: state or quality

The adjective ending -ible changes to -ibil- before -ity.

See it in context

The debate asked who bore responsibility for the workers' unsafe conditions.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

rest (root)

Root

Meaning: stay put, stand still

Same-root relatives arrest (noun / verb) · arresting (adjective) · restive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

rest — stay put, stand still

retro- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: backward

Words sharing this prefix retrospect (noun / verb) · retrospective (noun / adjective) · retroactive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

retro- — backward

rid (root)

Root

Meaning: laugh at

Same-root relatives ridiculous (adjective) · ridicule (verb) · deride (verb)

Membean word-part reference

rid — laugh at

rig (root)

Root

Meaning: stiffness

Same-root relatives rigid (adjective) · rigor (noun) · rigorous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

rig — stiffness

right-of-way (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Permission to use a strip or route across land for passage or construction.

Root & originright — correct or lawful Right comes from Old English riht, meaning straight or correct. Its meaning developed to include a legal claim, as in a right-of-way.

Same-root relativesright · rightful · rightly · righteousness

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Railroad companies lobbied for rights-of-way through land set aside for Native peoples.
YPT 79

Ch. 4

riv (root)

Root

Meaning: stream

Same-root relatives arrival (noun) · arrive (verb) · derive (verb)

Membean word-part reference

riv — stream

robor (root)

Root

Meaning: oak, strength

Same-root relatives corroborate (verb) · corroboration (noun) · robust (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

robor — oak, strength

rod (root)

Root

Meaning: chew, eat away

Same-root relatives erode (verb) · corrode (verb) · rodent (noun)

Membean word-part reference

rod — chew, eat away

rog (root)

Root

Meaning: ask, request

Same-root relatives abrogate (verb) · arrogance (noun) · arrogant (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

rog — ask, request

ros (root)

Root

Meaning: chew, eat away

Same-root relatives erosion (noun) · corrosive (noun / adjective) · rostrum (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ros — chew, eat away

rotund (root)

Root

Meaning: round

Same-root relatives rotundity (noun) · orotund (adjective) · round (noun / verb / adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

rotund — round

rub (root)

Root

Meaning: red

Same-root relatives rubric (noun) · ruby (noun / adjective) · rubella (noun)

Membean word-part reference

rub — red

rud (root)

Root

Meaning: unskilled, untaught

Same-root relatives erudite (adjective) · rude (adjective) · rudimentary (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

rud — unskilled, untaught

rupt (root)

Root

Meaning: burst

Root & originrupt — break Rupt comes from Latin rumpere, meaning to break; ruptus is a related form.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives interruption (noun) · interrupt (verb) · erupt (verb)

Membean word-part reference

rupt — burst

rus (root)

Root

Meaning: reject

Same-root relatives ruse (noun) · recusant (noun / adjective) · recuse (verb)

Membean word-part reference

rus — reject

sacchar (root)

Root

Meaning: sugar

Same-root relatives saccharine (adjective) · sucrose (noun) · sugarcoat (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sacchar — sugar

sacr (root)

Root

Meaning: sacred, holy

Same-root relatives sacrifice (noun / verb) · sacred (adjective) · sacrilege (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sacr — sacred, holy

sag (root)

Root

Meaning: perceive keenly

Same-root relatives sage (noun / adjective) · presage (noun / verb) · sagacious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sag — perceive keenly

sal (root)

Root

Meaning: health, safety

Same-root relatives salutation (noun) · salute (noun / verb) · salubrious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sal — health, safety

sal (root)

Root

Meaning: leap, spring forward, jump

Same-root relatives salient (noun) · sally (noun) · saltation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sal — leap, spring forward, jump

"Sambo" (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A racist caricature that falsely portrayed Black people as childish, passive, and content with subordination or enslavement.

Root & originHistorical label · disputed origin This racist caricature used a personal name whose earlier origin is uncertain, possibly African. Dictionaries distinguish this name from a similar Spanish-derived label; it has no productive English root family.

Connected vocabulary · not a root familystereotype · caricature · racism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay explains how the "Sambo" stereotype served the interests of enslavers.

Ch. 5

5 Slavery

sanct (root)

Root

Meaning: holy

Same-root relatives sanctuary (noun) · sanction (noun) · sanctity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sanct — holy

sanguin (root)

Root

Meaning: blood

Same-root relatives consanguineous (adjective) · consanguinity (noun) · sanguinary (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sanguin — blood

sap (root)

Root

Meaning: in good taste, wise

Same-root relatives sapid (adjective) · sapience (noun) · sapient (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sap — in good taste, wise

sat (root)

Root

Meaning: enough

Same-root relatives satisfied (adjective) · satisfy (verb) · satisfactory (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sat — enough

sav (root)

Root

Meaning: in good taste, wise

Same-root relatives savor (noun / verb) · savory (noun / adjective) · savvy (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

sav — in good taste, wise

scen (root)

Root

Meaning: stage

Same-root relatives scene (noun) · scenery (noun) · scenic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

scen — stage

scend (root)

Root

Meaning: climb, mount

Same-root relatives descendant (noun) · descend (verb) · transcend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

scend — climb, mount

sch (root)

Root

Meaning: split, division

Same-root relatives schism (noun) · schismatic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sch — split, division

schem (root)

Root

Meaning: form, shape, manner

Same-root relatives scheme (noun / verb) · schematic (noun / adjective) · schema (noun)

Membean word-part reference

schem — form, shape, manner

sci (root)

Root

Meaning: know

Same-root relatives science (noun) · scientific (adjective) · consciousness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sci — know

scop (root)

Root

Meaning: see

Same-root relatives scope (noun) · microscope (noun) · microscopic (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

scop — see

scrib (root)

Root

Meaning: write

Same-root relatives describe (verb) · prescribe (verb) · subscribe (verb)

Membean word-part reference

scrib — write

script (root)

Root

Meaning: written

Root & originscribe / script — write Scribe and script come from Latin scribere, meaning to write, and its related form scriptus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives description (noun) · script (noun / verb) · scripture (noun)

Membean word-part reference

script — written

scrut (root)

Root

Meaning: probe, examine

Same-root relatives scrutinize (verb) · scrutiny (noun) · inscrutable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

scrut — probe, examine

se- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: apart

Words sharing this prefix segregate (verb) · separate (noun / verb / adjective) · secure (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

se- — apart

search (root)

Root

Meaning: ring, circle

Same-root relatives search (noun / verb) · research (verb) · searching (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

search — ring, circle

secr (root)

Root

Meaning: sacred, holy

Same-root relatives desecrate (verb) · desecration (noun) · consecrate (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

secr — sacred, holy

sect (root)

Root

Meaning: cut

Same-root relatives section (noun) · intersection (noun) · sector (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sect — cut

secut (root)

Root

Meaning: follow

Same-root relatives prosecute (verb) · consecutive (adjective / adverb) · persecute (verb)

Membean word-part reference

secut — follow

sed (root)

Root

Meaning: sit, settle, rest

Same-root relatives supersede (verb) · sediment (noun / verb) · sedan (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sed — sit, settle, rest

seem (root)

Root

Meaning: fitting

Same-root relatives seem (verb) · seeming (adjective) · seemly (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

seem — fitting

segregate (verb)

Academic vocabulary

To separate groups of people and restrict their use of shared spaces or institutions.

Root & origingreg — flock or group Segregation comes from Latin segregare, to separate from a flock, using se-, apart, and grex, with the form gregis, meaning flock.

Same-root relativessegregation · desegregate · congregate · aggregate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Jim Crow laws segregated many public facilities, restricting where Black residents could study, travel, or receive services.

segregation (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The enforced or systematic separation of groups, especially by race, in institutions, spaces, or daily life.

Root & origingreg — flock or group Segregation comes from Latin segregare, to separate from a flock, using se-, apart, and grex, with the form gregis, meaning flock.

Same-root relativessegregate · desegregate · congregate · aggregate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

segregate + -ion → segregation

segregate: separate groups from one another · -ion: process or system

Drop the final e before -ion.

See it in context

Segregation restricted access to schools, housing, and public facilities.
Northern theaters and churches separated Black audiences or worshippers from whites.
YPT 86–87

Ch. 5 Ch. 12

12 Mexico

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

self-interest (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Concern for one's own advantage, security, or benefit.

Root & origininter / est — between / be Interest comes from Latin interesse, meaning to be between, concern, or make a difference. Self-interest names concern for one’s own advantage.

Same-root relativesinterest · interested · interesting · disinterest

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Virginia’s wealthy planters acted in their self-interest when they lengthened servants’ contracts to keep workers serving them and limit competition for land.

(YPT 53)

sem (root)

Root

Meaning: sign

Same-root relatives semantic (adjective) · polysemous (adjective) · semantics (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sem — sign

sembl (root)

Root

Meaning: copy

Same-root relatives resemble (verb) · resemblance (noun) · dissemble (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sembl — copy

semin (root)

Root

Meaning: seed

Same-root relatives disseminate (verb) · seminary (noun) · dissemination (noun)

Membean word-part reference

semin — seed

sen (root)

Root

Meaning: old man, elder, old

Same-root relatives senate (noun) · senator (noun) · senior (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sen — old man, elder, old

sens (root)

Root

Meaning: felt, sensed, perceived

Root & originsent / sens — feel or perceive Sent and sens come from Latin sentire, meaning to feel or perceive, and its related form sensus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives sense (noun / verb) · sensitive (noun / adjective) · sensation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sens — felt, sensed, perceived

sent (root)

Root

Meaning: be

Same-root relatives representative (noun / adjective) · represent (verb) · absent (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sent — be

sent (root)

Root

Meaning: feel, sense, perceive

Root & originsent / sens — feel or perceive Sent and sens come from Latin sentire, meaning to feel or perceive, and its related form sensus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives resentment (noun) · sentence (noun / verb) · consent (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sent — feel, sense, perceive

sequ (root)

Root

Meaning: follow

Same-root relatives consequence (noun) · sequence (noun) · consequential (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sequ — follow

seren (root)

Root

Meaning: clear, untroubled

Same-root relatives serenity (noun) · serenade (noun / verb) · serene (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

seren — clear, untroubled

sert (root)

Root

Meaning: join

Same-root relatives desert (noun / verb) · assert (verb) · insert (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sert — join

serv (root)

Root

Meaning: keep, guard, save

Root & originserv — keep or guard Reservation comes from Latin reservare, to keep back, with servare, meaning to keep or guard. This serv differs from servire, to serve.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives reservation (noun) · preserve (verb) · reserved (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

serv — keep, guard, save

serv (root)

Root

Meaning: wait on, serve

Root & originserv — serve Serv connects Latin servire, meaning to serve, with servus, meaning an enslaved person. Modern family words have developed several different meanings.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives servitude (noun) · service (noun / verb) · serve (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

serv — wait on, serve

serv (root)

RootWord of the day

A historical root connected to serving; distinguish it from the different root in preserve and reservation.

Root & originserv — serve Serv connects Latin servire, meaning to serve, with servus, meaning an enslaved person. Modern family words have developed several different meanings.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives serve (noun / verb) · service (noun / verb) · servant (noun) · servitude (noun) · servile (adjective)

See it in context

John Punch was sentenced to lifetime servitude while the white runaways received limited additional terms.
serv- (serve) + -i- (linking vowel) + -tude (state), a historical root analysis.
YPT 51

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 11 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

service jobs (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Jobs providing personal or everyday services rather than producing factory goods.

Root & originjob — piece of work Job became an English word for a piece of work. Its earlier origin is uncertain; jobless is job plus -less, without.

Same-root relativesjob · jobs · jobless · joblessness

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter lists domestic work, laundry, janitorial work, and waiting tables among such jobs.
YPT 261

Ch. 13

servitude (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A condition of being forced or legally bound to serve another person.

Root & originserv — serve Serv connects Latin servire, meaning to serve, with servus, meaning an enslaved person. Modern family words have developed several different meanings.

Same-root relativesserve · service · servant · subservient

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

John Punch received a sentence of servitude for life after running away, while the two white servants captured with him received additional years of service.

(YPT 51)

sever (root)

Root

Meaning: strict, grave

Same-root relatives severe (adjective) · severity (noun) · persevere (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sever — strict, grave

sharecropper (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A farmworker who receives a share of the crop for working another person’s land.

Root & originshare / crop — portion / harvest Sharecropping joins share, a portion, with crop, a harvest, and -ing. Both bases come from Old English; the tenant pays with a share of the crop.

Relatives sharing share or cropsharecrop · sharecropping · crop · shareholder

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

sharecrop + -er → sharecropper

sharecrop: farm in exchange for a share of the crop · -er: person who does the work

Double the final p before adding -er.

See it in context

Many landless freedpeople became sharecroppers on former masters’ land and faced continuing debts.
YPT 99

Ch. 5

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

sharecroppers (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Farmers who work another owner’s land and pay with a share of the harvest.

Root & originshare / crop — portion / harvest Sharecropping joins share, a portion, with crop, a harvest, and -ing. Both bases come from Old English; the tenant pays with a share of the crop.

Relatives sharing share or cropsharecrop · sharecropper · sharecropping · crop · shareholder

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes southern Black sharecroppers trapped by debt and unable to acquire land.
YPT 256

Ch. 13

sharecropping (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A farming arrangement in which a tenant gives a landowner a share of the crop as payment for using land and often supplies.

Root & originshare / crop — portion / harvest Sharecropping joins share, a portion, with crop, a harvest, and -ing. Both bases come from Old English; the tenant pays with a share of the crop.

Relatives sharing share or cropsharecrop · sharecropper · crop · shareholder

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

sharecrop + -ing → sharecropping

sharecrop: farm in exchange for a share of the crop · -ing: activity or ongoing action

Double the final p. In the vocabulary entry, sharecropping names a labor system.

See it in context

Debt could leave a sharecropping family with little control over its earnings.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

shtetls (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Jewish towns or villages in Eastern Europe described in the chapter.

Root & originshtet — town Shtetl is Yiddish for a small town: shtot, town, plus a diminutive ending. Shtetlekh is the Yiddish plural; English also uses shtetls.

Same-root relativesshtetl · shtetlekh · shtot (Yiddish: town)

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Migrants left these familiar communities and rebuilt neighborhood institutions in New York.
YPT 216 YPT 218–219

Ch. 11

sibil (root)

Root

Meaning: hiss, whistle

Same-root relatives sibilant (noun / adjective) · sibilance (noun) · sibilation (noun)

Example word references

Merriam-Webster: sibilance

Membean word-part reference

sibil — hiss, whistle

sid (root)

Root

Meaning: sit

Same-root relatives president (noun) · resident (noun / adjective) · residential (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sid — sit

sider (root)

Root

Meaning: star

Same-root relatives consider (verb) · considerable (adjective) · consideration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sider — star

sign (root)

Root

Meaning: mark, seal, sign

Root & originsign — mark Sign comes from Latin signum, meaning a mark or signal.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives sign (noun / verb / adjective) · significant (adjective) · significance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sign — mark, seal, sign

sim (root)

Root

Meaning: once

Same-root relatives simply (adverb) · simple (noun / adjective) · simplicity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sim — once

simil (root)

Root

Meaning: like

Same-root relatives assimilation (noun) · similar (adjective) · assimilate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

simil — like

simul (root)

Root

Meaning: pretend, copy, imitate

Same-root relatives simulate (verb) · simulation (noun) · dissimulate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

simul — pretend, copy, imitate

sin (root)

Root

Meaning: curve, fold, hollow

Same-root relatives insinuation (noun) · sinuous (adjective) · cosine (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sin — curve, fold, hollow

sist (root)

Root

Meaning: stand

Same-root relatives resist (verb) · resistance (noun) · assist (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sist — stand

sit-in (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A protest in which participants occupy a space to challenge an exclusionary practice.

Root & originsit — take a seated position Sit comes from Old English sittan. Sit-in is a compound naming a protest in which people remain seated in a place.

Same-root relativessit · sitter · sitting

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Students sat at lunch counters that refused equal service to Black customers.
YPT 305 YPT 316

Ch. 15

situ (root)

Root

Meaning: positioned

Same-root relatives situation (noun) · situate (verb) · situated (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

situ — positioned

skept (root)

Root

Meaning: examine, consider

Same-root relatives skeptical (adjective) · skeptic (noun) · skepticism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

skept — examine, consider

sol (root)

Root

Meaning: alone

Same-root relatives sole (noun / verb / adjective) · soloist (noun) · desolate (verb / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sol — alone

sol (root)

Root

Meaning: comfort

Same-root relatives consolation (noun) · solace (noun / verb) · console (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

sol — comfort

sol (root)

Root

Meaning: be in the habit of

Same-root relatives insolence (noun) · obsolescent (adjective) · obsolescence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sol — be in the habit of

sol (root)

Root

Meaning: sun

Same-root relatives insolation (noun) · parasol (noun) · solstice (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sol — sun

sol (root)

Root

Meaning: whole, firm

Same-root relatives solidarity (noun) · soldier (noun / verb) · solemnly (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

sol — whole, firm

solidarity (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Mutual support among people who recognize shared interests or responsibilities.

Root & originsolid — firm or whole Solidarity came through French solidarité, from solide, meaning solid, ultimately from Latin solidus. It connects firmness with people supporting one another.

Same-root relativessolid · solidify · solidly

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Workers showed solidarity by supporting one another during the strike.
Mexican JMLA members refused to gain admission to the AFL by excluding their Japanese coworkers.
YPT 140–141
Industrial unions sought greater solidarity across racial lines during the economic crisis of the 1930s.
YPT 268

Ch. 7 Ch. 10 Ch. 13

10 Japan

solut (root)

Root

Meaning: loosened

Same-root relatives solution (noun) · resolution (noun) · absolutely (adverb)

Membean word-part reference

solut — loosened

solv (root)

Root

Meaning: loosen

Same-root relatives solve (verb) · resolve (verb) · dissolve (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

solv — loosen

somat (root)

Root

Meaning: body

Same-root relatives somatic (adjective) · psychosomatic (adjective) · chromosome (noun)

Membean word-part reference

somat — body

somn (root)

Root

Meaning: sleep

Same-root relatives somnolent (adjective) · insomnia (noun) · insomniac (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

somn — sleep

son (root)

Root

Meaning: sound

Same-root relatives consonant (noun / adjective) · resonant (adjective) · sonnet (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

son — sound

soph (root)

Root

Meaning: wise, clever

Same-root relatives philosophy (noun) · sophisticated (adjective) · philosophical (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

soph — wise, clever

sorb (root)

Root

Meaning: soak up

Same-root relatives absorb (verb) · absorbency (noun) · absorbent (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sorb — soak up

sort (root)

Root

Meaning: lot

Same-root relatives sort (noun / verb) · resort (noun / verb) · consort (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

sort — lot

sourc (root)

Root

Meaning: rise

Same-root relatives source (noun) · resource (noun) · resources (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sourc — rise

spat (root)

Root

Meaning: distance, area

Same-root relatives spatial (adjective) · spatiotemporal (adjective) · space (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

spat — distance, area

spec (root)

Root

Meaning: kind, form

Same-root relatives especially (adverb) · special (noun / adjective) · specific (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

spec — kind, form

spec (root)

Root

Meaning: see, look at, observe

Same-root relatives inspect (verb) · spectator (noun) · speculate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

spec — see, look at, observe

spect (root)

Root

Meaning: see, observe, look, watch over

Root & originspect — look Spect comes from Latin specere, meaning to look. It connects literal looking with viewpoints and judgments.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives respect (noun / verb) · suspect (noun / verb / adjective) · prospect (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

spect — see, observe, look, watch over

sper (root)

Root

Meaning: hope

Same-root relatives desperate (noun / adjective) · prosperity (noun) · desperation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sper — hope

spers (root)

Root

Meaning: scatter, besprinkle

Same-root relatives disperse (verb) · dispersal (noun) · dispersion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

spers — scatter, besprinkle

spic (root)

Root

Meaning: see, observe, look, watch over

Same-root relatives suspicion (noun) · suspicious (adjective) · conspicuous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

spic — see, observe, look, watch over

spir (root)

Root

Meaning: breathe

Same-root relatives spirit (noun / verb) · conspiracy (noun) · inspiration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

spir — breathe

spit (root)

Root

Meaning: see, observe, look, watch over

Same-root relatives despite (noun) · spite (noun / verb) · respite (noun)

Membean word-part reference

spit — see, observe, look, watch over

splend (root)

Root

Meaning: bright, shining

Same-root relatives splendid (adjective) · splendor (noun) · resplendent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

splend — bright, shining

spond/spons (root)

RootWord of the day

Bound Latin root forms historically connected to pledging; in respond and response, they connect to answering. Responsibility concerns what a person is answerable for.

Root & originspond / spons — pledge or answer Spond and spons come from Latin spondere, meaning to promise or pledge. Respondere meant to answer in return.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives respond (verb) · response (noun) · responsible (adjective) · responsibility (noun) · irresponsible (adjective)

See it in context

The growers denied responsibility for migrant laborers’ living conditions after the harvest.
responsible + -ity → responsibility; -ible changes to -ibil- before -ity.
YPT 242

Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

spond — pledge, promise

spor (root)

Root

Meaning: seed, a sowing, a scattering

Same-root relatives sporadic (adjective) · spore (noun) · diaspora (noun)

Membean word-part reference

spor — seed, a sowing, a scattering

spous (root)

Root

Meaning: pledged, promised

Same-root relatives espouse (verb) · spouse (noun) · espousal (noun)

Membean word-part reference

spous — pledged, promised

squatter (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person who occupies land without the owner's permission.

Root & originsquat — crouch Squatter is squat plus -er. Squat came through French esquatir, to flatten or press down; its meaning shifted toward crouching and then occupying land.

Same-root relativessquat · squatting · squatted

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Anglo squatters remained on Mexican-owned property, including land Vallejo fought to retain.
YPT 135 YPT 144

Ch. 7

stant (root)

Root

Meaning: stand, stand still

Same-root relatives distant (adjective) · constant (noun / adjective) · instant (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

stant — stand, stand still

stas (root)

Root

Meaning: standing, standing still

Same-root relatives ecstasy (noun) · apostasy (noun) · homeostasis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

stas — standing, standing still

stat (root)

Root

Meaning: stands

Same-root relatives status (noun) · state (noun) · estate (noun)

Membean word-part reference

stat — stands

status (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A person's or group's recognized social, legal, or economic position.

Root & originstat — stand Status comes from Latin status, meaning a position or condition, from stare, meaning to stand.

Same-root relativesstate · station · static · statue

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Ch. 3

3 Origins

See it in context

Virginia laws changed Black workers’ legal status by allowing lifetime servitude and then defining enslaved people as property.

(YPT 51–52)

stereo- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: solid

Words sharing this prefix stereotype (noun) · stereotypical (adjective) · cholesterol (noun)

Membean word-part reference

stereo- — solid

stig (root)

Root

Meaning: mark, brand, tattoo-mark

Same-root relatives stigmatize (verb) · instigate (verb) · astigmatism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

stig — mark, brand, tattoo-mark

still (root)

Root

Meaning: drop

Same-root relatives distillation (noun) · instillation (noun) · distillate (noun)

Membean word-part reference

still — drop

stitut (root)

Root

Meaning: set up, decided

Same-root relatives constitution (noun) · institution (noun) · constitute (verb)

Membean word-part reference

stitut — set up, decided

stor (root)

Root

Meaning: renew

Same-root relatives store (noun / verb) · restore (verb) · restoration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

stor — renew

strat (root)

Root

Meaning: covering, spread

Same-root relatives stratify (verb) · substrate (noun) · stratification (noun)

Membean word-part reference

strat — covering, spread

strict (root)

Root

Meaning: drawn tight, confined

Same-root relatives strict (adjective) · district (noun / verb) · restriction (noun)

Membean word-part reference

strict — drawn tight, confined

strike (noun / verb)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A coordinated refusal to work intended to pressure an employer or other authority.

Root & originstrike — hit or stop work Strike comes from Old English strican, to stroke or pass over. The labor sense developed from stopping work; a strikebreaker works against that stoppage.

Same-root relativesstriker · striking · strikebreaker · strikebreaking

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The workers voted to strike after negotiations failed.

Ch. 10

10 Japan

strikebreaker (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A person who works in place of striking workers or otherwise helps an employer continue operations during a strike.

Root & originstrike — hit or stop work Strike comes from Old English strican, to stroke or pass over. The labor sense developed from stopping work; a strikebreaker works against that stoppage.

Same-root relativesstrike · striker · striking · strikebreaking

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Employers hired strikebreakers to keep production going while union members withheld their labor.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

strikebreakers (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Workers who take or continue jobs during a strike, weakening the work stoppage.

Root & originstrike — hit or stop work Strike comes from Old English strican, to stroke or pass over. The labor sense developed from stopping work; a strikebreaker works against that stoppage.

Same-root relativesstrike · striker · striking · strikebreaker · strikebreaking

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Women on 1933 picket lines urged strikebreakers to join the protest.
YPT 243

Ch. 12

string (root)

Root

Meaning: draw tight, tighten, confine

Same-root relatives string (noun / verb) · astringent (noun / adjective) · stringy (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

string — draw tight, tighten, confine

stru (root)

Root

Meaning: build, construct

Same-root relatives reconstruction (proper noun) · construction (noun) · instrument (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

stru — build, construct

struct (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root connected to building or arranging; useful for analyzing institutions as well as physical construction.

Root & originstruct — build Struct comes from Latin struere, meaning to build or arrange parts together.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives structure (noun) · construction (noun) · reconstruction (proper noun) · instruction (noun) · destruction (noun)

See it in context

Irish laborers sought seasonal construction work to earn money for rent and support their families.
construct + -ion; con- (together) + struct (build) explains the base historically.
YPT 107

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

struct — built

structure (noun)

Word of the day

The way the parts of something are arranged and connected.

Root & originstruct — build Struct comes from Latin struere, meaning to build or arrange parts together.

Same-root relativesconstruct · instruction · destruction · infrastructure

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The paragraph's structure moves from a claim to evidence and analysis.

Foundations

stup (root)

Root

Meaning: become dazed, be amazed

Same-root relatives stupid (noun / adjective) · stupidity (noun) · stupendous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

stup — become dazed, be amazed

su (root)

Root

Meaning: follow

Same-root relatives pursue (verb) · suitable (adjective) · unsuitable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

su — follow

suad (root)

Root

Meaning: make sweet, urge

Same-root relatives persuade (verb) · dissuade (verb)

Membean word-part reference

suad — make sweet, urge

suav (root)

Root

Meaning: sweet

Same-root relatives suave (adjective) · assuage (verb) · dissuasion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

suav — sweet

sub- (prefix)

Prefix

Under, below, or a smaller part within a larger whole.

Word-part originsub- Latin sub means under or below. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix subway (noun) · subgroup (noun) · subhuman (adjective) · subordinate (noun) · subdivide (verb)

See it in context

Irish political leaders rewarded supporters with public jobs, including work in city-owned subways.
sub- (under) + way + -s; a subway is a route beneath the surface.
YPT 119

Ch. 6 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

sub- — under, from below

sublim (root)

Root

Meaning: uplifted

Same-root relatives sublime (adjective) · sublimate (noun / verb / adjective) · sublimation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sublim — uplifted

subsidies (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Financial aid from government that supports producers or an activity.

Root & originsid — sit Subsidy comes from Latin subsidium, assistance or reserve support, related to subsidere, meaning to sit down or remain behind.

Same-root relativessubsidy · subsidize · subsidized · subsidization

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter argues that subsidies helped US-grown corn sell more cheaply than Mexican-grown corn.
YPT 331

Ch. 16

suc- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under

Words sharing this prefix succeed (verb) · successive (adjective) · succumb (verb)

Membean word-part reference

suc- — under

suf- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under, from below

Words sharing this prefix suffrage (noun) · suffer (verb) · sufficient (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

suf- — under, from below

suffrage (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The right to vote in political elections.

Root & originsuffrag — vote or support Suffrage comes from Latin suffragium, meaning a vote or support. Its earlier formation is uncertain; it is not related to suffering.

Same-root relativessuffragist · suffragette

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The campaign demanded equal suffrage for people denied a political voice.
Irish American voters used suffrage to elect candidates who provided access to city jobs and contracts.
YPT 119–120

Ch. 6 Ch. 11

11 Russian Jews

sull (root)

Root

Meaning: soil

Same-root relatives sully (noun / verb) · unsullied (adjective) · unsoiled (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sull — soil

sult (root)

Root

Meaning: leap, spring forward, jump

Same-root relatives result (noun / verb) · insult (noun / verb) · resultant (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

sult — leap, spring forward, jump

sum (root)

Root

Meaning: take up, put on

Same-root relatives consume (verb) · assume (verb) · resume (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sum — take up, put on

summ (root)

Root

Meaning: highest, topmost

Same-root relatives summit (noun) · summarize (verb) · summary (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

summ — highest, topmost

sumpt (root)

Root

Meaning: taken up, put on

Same-root relatives assumption (noun) · consumptive (noun / adjective) · presumption (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sumpt — taken up, put on

sup- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under

Words sharing this prefix support (noun / verb) · supply (noun / verb) · suppress (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sup- — under

super- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: over, above

Words sharing this prefix superior (noun / adjective) · superintendent (noun) · supervise (verb)

Membean word-part reference

super- — over, above

sur- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: over, above

Words sharing this prefix survive (verb) · survey (noun / verb) · surround (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

sur- — over, above

sur- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under

Words sharing this prefix surreptitious (adjective) · surrogate (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sur- — under

surg (root)

Root

Meaning: rise

Same-root relatives surge (noun / verb) · insurgency (noun) · insurgent (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

surg — rise

surplus land (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

Land officials designated as remaining after individual allotments.

Root & originland — ground or territory Land comes from Old English land, meaning ground or territory. It remains a whole English base in landless and landlord.

Same-root relativesland · landless · landlord · landowner · landownership

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The government could sell designated surplus reservation land to white settlers even though it had belonged to tribes.
YPT 174–175

Ch. 9

surrect (root)

Root

Meaning: rise

Same-root relatives insurrection (noun) · resurrect (verb) · insurrectionist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

surrect — rise

sus- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: under

Words sharing this prefix suspect (noun / verb / adjective) · sustain (verb) · suspend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

sus- — under

sweatshop (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A workplace with poor conditions and low pay, often involving long hours.

Root & originsweat — perspire or labor hard Sweatshop combines sweat, from Old English swat, with shop. Sweat’s labor meaning points to work under exhausting conditions.

Same-root relativessweat · sweaty · sweating

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some Chinese immigrant women worked in garment factories described as dirty and demanding.
YPT 319–320

Ch. 16

sweatshops (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

Workplaces marked here by long hours, intense production pressure, and poor conditions.

Root & originsweat — perspire or labor hard Sweatshop combines sweat, from Old English swat, with shop. Sweat’s labor meaning points to work under exhausting conditions.

Same-root relativessweat · sweaty · sweating · sweatshop

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Garment workers performed specialized tasks in crowded, hot, and often dangerous shops.
YPT 222–223

Ch. 11

sym- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: with, together

Words sharing this prefix symbol (noun) · sympathy (noun) · symptom (noun)

Membean word-part reference

sym- — with, together

symbolize (verb)

Word of the day

To represent an idea or meaning through an image, object, person, or action.

Root & originsym / bol — together / throw Symbol comes from Greek symbolon, a sign or token, from symballein, to throw or put together. A token helped people recognize a connection.

Same-root relativessymbol · symbolic · symbolism

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

symbol + -ize

symbol: something that represents an idea · -ize: perform an action or function

See it in context

In the poster, a broken chain symbolizes freedom.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

syn- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: with, together

Words sharing this prefix synthesis (noun) · syntax (noun) · synagogue (noun)

Membean word-part reference

syn- — with, together

tabl (root)

Root

Meaning: board, plank

Same-root relatives table (noun / verb) · tablet (noun) · tabled (verb)

Membean word-part reference

tabl — board, plank

tac (root)

Root

Meaning: silent, quiet

Same-root relatives tacit (adjective) · taciturn (adjective) · taciturnity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tac — silent, quiet

tact (root)

Root

Meaning: touched

Same-root relatives contact (noun / verb) · tactless (adjective) · intact (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tact — touched

tail (root)

Root

Meaning: a cutting

Same-root relatives detail (noun) · retail (noun / verb / adverb) · detailed (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tail — a cutting

tain (root)

Root

Meaning: have, hold

Root & origintain / ten — hold Tain and ten trace back to Latin tenere, meaning to hold. Related forms also appear as tent in retention and detention.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives maintain (verb) · obtain (verb) · contain (verb)

Membean word-part reference

tain — have, hold

taint (root)

Root

Meaning: stained, dyed

Same-root relatives taint (noun / verb) · untainted (adjective) · stain (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

taint — stained, dyed

tang (root)

Root

Meaning: touch, affect

Same-root relatives tangent (noun) · tangible (adjective) · intangible (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tang — touch, affect

taph (root)

Root

Meaning: tomb

Same-root relatives epitaph (noun) · cenotaph (noun)

Membean word-part reference

taph — tomb

tax (root)

Root

Meaning: arrange, put in order

Same-root relatives syntax (noun) · taxidermist (noun) · taxidermy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tax — arrange, put in order

techn (root)

Root

Meaning: skill, art, craft

Same-root relatives technology (noun) · technological (adjective) · technique (noun)

Membean word-part reference

techn — skill, art, craft

tedi (root)

Root

Meaning: weariness

Same-root relatives tedious (adjective) · tediousness (noun) · tedium (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tedi — weariness

teg (root)

Root

Meaning: cover, shield, protect

Same-root relatives protege (noun) · integument (noun) · protegee (noun)

Membean word-part reference

teg — cover, shield, protect

temp (root)

Root

Meaning: time

Same-root relatives temporary (noun / adjective) · contemporary (noun / adjective) · tempo (noun)

Membean word-part reference

temp — time

temper (root)

Root

Meaning: regulate, modify

Same-root relatives temperature (noun) · temperate (adjective) · temperament (noun)

Membean word-part reference

temper — regulate, modify

tempt (root)

Root

Meaning: try

Same-root relatives attempt (verb) · tempt (verb) · temptation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tempt — try

ten (root)

Root

Meaning: hold

Root & origintain / ten — hold Tain and ten trace back to Latin tenere, meaning to hold. Related forms also appear as tent in retention and detention.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives tenant (noun) · lieutenant (noun) · discontented (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ten — hold

tenant (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A person who rents land or property from an owner.

Root & originten — hold Tenant came through French tenant, holding, from Latin tenere, meaning to hold. A tenant holds the right to use property owned by someone else.

Same-root relativestenancy · tenement · tenure · retain

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Irish tenants rented small plots while English landlords controlled much of the land.
YPT 106–107

Ch. 6

tenant farmer (noun phrase)

Chapter vocabulary

A farmer who works land owned by someone else under a rental or crop-sharing arrangement.

Root & originten — hold Tenant came through French tenant, holding, from Latin tenere, meaning to hold. A tenant holds the right to use property owned by someone else.

Same-root relativestenant · tenancy · tenement · tenure · retain

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Some Chinese farmers cultivated white-owned land in exchange for half the proceeds from the crop.
YPT 150

Ch. 8

tend (root)

Root

Meaning: stretch

Root & origintend / tens / tent — stretch These forms come from Latin tendere, meaning to stretch. Attention originally points to stretching the mind toward something.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives attend (verb) · tend (verb) · intend (verb)

Membean word-part reference

tend — stretch

tens (root)

Root

Meaning: stretch, stretch out

Root & origintend / tens / tent — stretch These forms come from Latin tendere, meaning to stretch. Attention originally points to stretching the mind toward something.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives tension (noun) · extensive (adjective) · intensive (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tens — stretch, stretch out

tent (root)

Root

Meaning: stretched, stretched out

Root & origintend / tens / tent — stretch These forms come from Latin tendere, meaning to stretch. Attention originally points to stretching the mind toward something.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives attention (noun) · extent (noun) · tent (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

tent — stretched, stretched out

tenu (root)

Root

Meaning: thin

Same-root relatives extenuate (verb) · attenuate (verb / adjective) · attenuation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tenu — thin

termin (root)

Root

Meaning: boundary, end, limit

Same-root relatives exterminate (verb) · determine (verb) · determined (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

termin — boundary, end, limit

terr (root)

Root

Meaning: earth, land

Same-root relatives territory (noun) · territorial (noun / adjective) · extraterrestrial (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

terr — earth, land

terr (root)

Root

Meaning: frighten

Same-root relatives terrible (adjective) · terror (noun) · terrorist (noun)

Membean word-part reference

terr — frighten

territory (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An area of land controlled, claimed, or administered by a group or government.

Root & originterr — land or earth Territory comes from Latin territorium, land around a town, related to terra, meaning earth or land.

Same-root relativesterritorial · terrain · terrestrial

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Different governments claimed authority over the same territory.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

test (root)

Root

Meaning: witness, proof, indicator

Same-root relatives protest (noun / verb) · testimony (noun) · contest (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

test — witness, proof, indicator

text (root)

Root

Meaning: weave

Same-root relatives textile (noun / adjective) · text (noun) · texture (noun)

Membean word-part reference

text — weave

the (root)

Root

Meaning: god

Same-root relatives theology (noun) · theological (adjective) · theologian (noun)

Membean word-part reference

the — god

them (root)

Root

Meaning: proposition, idea put forth

Same-root relatives theme (noun / verb) · thematic (adjective) · anathema (noun)

Membean word-part reference

them — proposition, idea put forth

therm (root)

Root

Meaning: heat

Same-root relatives thermal (noun) · thermometer (noun) · thermodynamics (noun)

Membean word-part reference

therm — heat

thes (root)

Root

Meaning: put, place

Same-root relatives thesis (noun) · synthesis (noun) · hypothesis (noun)

Membean word-part reference

thes — put, place

tim (root)

Root

Meaning: fear, be afraid

Same-root relatives intimidate (verb) · timid (noun) · intimidation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tim — fear, be afraid

tin (root)

Root

Meaning: hold

Same-root relatives transcontinental (adjective) · continue (verb) · continent (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tin — hold

tinct (root)

Root

Meaning: prick, quench

Same-root relatives distinct (adjective) · distinction (noun) · distinctive (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tinct — prick, quench

ting (root)

Root

Meaning: touch, reach, affect

Same-root relatives contingency (noun) · contingent (adjective) · contiguity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ting — touch, reach, affect

titul (root)

Root

Meaning: label, title, description

Same-root relatives titular (adjective) · title (noun / verb) · entitle (verb)

Membean word-part reference

titul — label, title, description

tol (root)

Root

Meaning: raise, endure

Same-root relatives intolerable (adjective) · tolerance (noun) · tolerate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

tol — raise, endure

tom (root)

Root

Meaning: cut

Same-root relatives atomic (adjective) · atom (noun) · anatomical (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tom — cut

ton (root)

Root

Meaning: sound

Same-root relatives tone (noun / verb) · intonation (noun) · tonal (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ton — sound

top (root)

Root

Meaning: place

Same-root relatives utopia (noun) · topic (noun) · topography (noun)

Membean word-part reference

top — place

torp (root)

Root

Meaning: be stiff, be numb

Same-root relatives torpid (adjective) · torpor (noun) · torpedo (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

torp — be stiff, be numb

torr (root)

Root

Meaning: burn

Same-root relatives torrent (noun) · torrential (adjective) · torrid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

torr — burn

tort (root)

Root

Meaning: twisted, wound, wrapped

Same-root relatives distort (verb) · contortion (noun) · retort (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

tort — twisted, wound, wrapped

tot (root)

Root

Meaning: whole, entire

Same-root relatives total (noun / verb / adjective) · teetotaler (noun) · totalitarian (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tot — whole, entire

tour (root)

Root

Meaning: circle

Same-root relatives tourist (noun) · contour (noun / verb) · tournament (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tour — circle

toxic (root)

Root

Meaning: poison

Same-root relatives intoxicant (noun / adjective) · intoxicate (verb) · intoxicating (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

toxic — poison

tract (root)

RootWord of the day

A bound Latin root connected to pulling or drawing; in contract the connection to drawing together is historical.

Root & origintract — pull Tract comes from Latin trahere, meaning to pull or draw; tractus is a related form.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives attract (verb) · attraction (noun) · extract (noun / verb) · contract (noun / verb) · contractor (noun)

See it in context

In extract, tract helps express the idea of pulling something out.
The 1871 law denied recognition of Native nations as independent powers with which the United States could contract by treaty.
con- (together) + tract (draw), a historical analysis; here contract means enter a formal agreement.
YPT 79

Ch. 2 Ch. 4 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 11 Ch. 13 Ch. 16

ACT Prep

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

tract — drag, pull

trans- (prefix)

Prefix

Across, beyond, or a change from one state to another.

Word-part origintrans- Latin trans means across or beyond. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix transcontinental (adjective) · transport (verb) · transfer (verb) · transform (verb) · translate (verb)

See it in context

Chinese and Irish workers built the transcontinental railroad that connected the nation’s coasts.
trans- (across) + continent + -al.
YPT 22

Ch. 1 Ch. 6 Ch. 8 Ch. 9 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 14 Ch. 16

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

trans- — across, through

transcontinental (adjective)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Extending or traveling across a continent.

Root & origincon / tin — together / hold Continent comes from Latin continens, holding together, from continere, to hold together. Transcontinental adds trans-, across.

Same-root relativescontinent · continental · intercontinental

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

trans- + continent + -al

trans-: across · continent: large landmass · -al: related to

See it in context

A transcontinental route connected distant regions and markets.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

treason (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A serious offense of betraying or rebelling against governing authority.

Root & origintrad — hand over Treason came through French from Latin traditio, a handing over, from tradere, to hand over. The sense developed into betrayal.

Same-root relativestreasonous · traitor · betrayal · tradition

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Berkeley accused Bacon of treason after his unauthorized campaign.
YPT 57

Ch. 3

treat (root)

Root

Meaning: drawn

Same-root relatives treaty (noun) · treatment (noun) · retreat (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

treat — drawn

treaty (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A formal agreement between political communities or governments.

Root & origintract — handle or deal with Treaty came through French from Latin tractare, meaning to handle or deal with. Treat and treatment developed through the same history.

Same-root relativestreat · treatment · treatise · mistreat

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Choctaw and Cherokee removal agreements raise questions about whether signatures reflected free and representative consent.
YPT 72 YPT 74–75

Ch. 4

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (proper noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The 1848 agreement that ended the U.S.-Mexican War and transferred a large area of northern Mexico to the United States.

Root & origintract — handle or deal with Guadalupe Hidalgo is the place name identifying this treaty. For word study, focus on treaty. Treaty came through French from Latin tractare, meaning to handle or deal with. Treat and treatment developed through the same history.

Same-root relatives of treatytreat · treaty · treatment · treatise · mistreat

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The essay examines how the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo changed borders and the lives of people in the transferred territory.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

trem (root)

Root

Meaning: shake, tremble

Same-root relatives tremendous (adjective) · tremble (noun / verb) · tremor (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

trem — shake, tremble

trepid (root)

Root

Meaning: alarmed, fearful

Same-root relatives trepidation (noun) · intrepid (adjective) · intrepidity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

trepid — alarmed, fearful

tri- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: three

Words sharing this prefix triangle (noun) · triple (noun / verb / adjective) · trivial (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tri- — three

trib / tribut (root)

RootWord of the day

Historical Latin forms connected to giving or assigning a share; in contribute and contribution, they help express supplying part of a larger effort.

Root & origintrib / tribut — allot or assign Trib and tribut come from Latin tribuere, meaning to allot, assign, or give.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Each worker's contribution added to the group's shared effort.

Same-root relatives contribute (verb) · contribution (noun) · distribute (verb) · distribution (noun) · tribute (noun)

Course spelling: trib

Word-part references

Membean word-part reference

tribut — divided, granted, given credit

tric (root)

Root

Meaning: entangle, make difficulties

Same-root relatives trickery (noun) · intricate (adjective) · trick (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

tric — entangle, make difficulties

trit (root)

Root

Meaning: rubbed, worn away

Same-root relatives contrition (noun) · trite (adjective) · attrition (noun)

Membean word-part reference

trit — rubbed, worn away

trop (root)

Root

Meaning: turn, change

Same-root relatives tropical (adjective) · entropy (noun) · heliotrope (noun)

Membean word-part reference

trop — turn, change

troph (root)

Root

Meaning: nourishment, food

Same-root relatives atrophy (noun / verb) · hypertrophy (noun / verb) · atrophied (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

troph — nourishment, food

trud (root)

Root

Meaning: thrust, push

Same-root relatives protrude (verb) · intrude (verb) · extrude (verb)

Membean word-part reference

trud — thrust, push

trunc (root)

Root

Meaning: trunk, removed by chopping

Same-root relatives truncate (verb) · trunk (noun) · entrench (verb)

Membean word-part reference

trunc — trunk, removed by chopping

trus (root)

Root

Meaning: thrusted, pushed

Same-root relatives intrusion (noun) · intrusive (adjective) · abstruse (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

trus — thrusted, pushed

tum (root)

Root

Meaning: swell,disturbance, uproar

Same-root relatives tumor (noun) · tumult (noun) · tumultuous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tum — swell,disturbance, uproar

turb (root)

Root

Meaning: confusion, turmoil, disorder

Same-root relatives disturb (verb) · disturbance (noun) · turbine (noun)

Membean word-part reference

turb — confusion, turmoil, disorder

turg (root)

Root

Meaning: be swollen

Same-root relatives turgid (adjective) · turgidity (noun)

Membean word-part reference

turg — be swollen

tus (root)

Root

Meaning: beat, blunt, deaden the senses

Same-root relatives contusion (noun) · contuse (verb) · obtuse (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

tus — beat, blunt, deaden the senses

tut (root)

Root

Meaning: protect, catch sight of

Same-root relatives tutor (noun / verb) · tutorial (noun / adjective) · tutelage (noun)

Membean word-part reference

tut — protect, catch sight of

typ (root)

Root

Meaning: blow, impression, form

Same-root relatives stereotype (noun) · typical (adjective) · prototype (noun)

Membean word-part reference

typ — blow, impression, form

ult (root)

Root

Meaning: beyond

Same-root relatives ultimate (noun / adjective) · ultrasonic (adjective) · ultraviolet (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ult — beyond

umbr (root)

Root

Meaning: shadow, shade

Same-root relatives umbrella (noun / adjective) · adumbrate (verb) · adumbration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

umbr — shadow, shade

un- (prefix)

Prefix

Can mean not or reverse an action; compare unequal with untie.

Word-part originun- English un- comes from Old English forms used for not or for reversing an action. These examples share the prefix; their roots can differ.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Words sharing this prefix unequal (adjective) · unfair (adjective) · undocumented (adjective) · unemployed (noun / adjective) · unskilled (adjective)

See it in context

The chapter presents a debate about whether undocumented immigrants should receive a route to citizenship.
un- (not) + documented; the adjective describes a person’s immigration documents or authorization.
YPT 329

Ch. 2 Ch. 3 Ch. 4 Ch. 5 Ch. 6 Ch. 7 Ch. 8 Ch. 10 Ch. 12 Ch. 13 Ch. 14 Ch. 15 Ch. 16 Ch. 17

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

Membean word-part reference

un- — not, opposite of

und (root)

Root

Meaning: wave

Same-root relatives surround (noun / verb) · abundance (noun) · abound (verb)

Membean word-part reference

und — wave

Underground Railroad (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A network of people and shelters assisting escape from slavery.

Root & originrail — bar or track Rail came through French from Latin regula, a straight rod. Railroad joins rail and road; Underground Railroad used that transport image for secret escape routes.

Same-root relativesrail · railing · railway · railroad

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Loguen’s Syracuse home became a stop for people seeking freedom.
YPT 103

Ch. 5

unequal (adjective)

Academic vocabulary

Not equal in amount, treatment, opportunity, or power.

Root & originequ — equal or level Equ comes from Latin aequus, meaning equal, level, or fair.

Same-root relativesequal · equality · equity · equitable

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Sharecropping contracts could create an unequal relationship when landowners controlled the land, supplies, and accounting that determined a family’s debt.

uni- (prefix)

Prefix

Meaning: one

Words sharing this prefix union (noun) · unity (noun) · university (noun)

Membean word-part reference

uni- — one

union (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

An organization of workers formed to pursue shared interests such as wages, safety, and working conditions.

Root & originuni — one Union comes from Latin unio, oneness or unity, related to unus, meaning one. The family describes joining parts or people together.

Same-root relativesunite · unity · unionism · unionize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The union gathered workers' concerns before meeting with management.

Ch. 7

7 Mexico

unionism (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

Support for or participation in labor unions and collective worker organization; in other contexts, it can mean support for political union.

Root & originuni — one Union comes from Latin unio, oneness or unity, related to unus, meaning one. The family describes joining parts or people together.

Same-root relativesunion · unite · unity · unionize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

union + -ism

union: organized group of workers · -ism: principle, practice, or movement

In the labor context, unionism names support for organizing workers into unions.

See it in context

The essay compares forms of unionism that included different groups of workers.

Ch. 13

13 Great Migration

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

unionization (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The process of forming or joining a labor union.

Root & originuni — one Union comes from Latin unio, oneness or unity, related to unus, meaning one. The family describes joining parts or people together.

Same-root relativesunion · unite · unity · unionism · unionize

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

unionize + -ation → unionization

unionize: organize workers into a union · -ation: process

Drop the final e before -ation.

See it in context

Unionization gave workers a formal way to bargain together.

Ch. 10

10 Japan

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

urb (root)

Root

Meaning: of a city

Same-root relatives urban (adjective) · suburban (adjective) · suburb (noun)

Membean word-part reference

urb — of a city

us (root)

Root

Meaning: use

Same-root relatives use (noun / verb) · abuse (noun / verb) · useful (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

us — use

util (root)

Root

Meaning: useful, practical

Same-root relatives utility (noun / adjective) · utilization (noun) · utilitarian (noun)

Membean word-part reference

util — useful, practical

vac (root)

Root

Meaning: be empty

Same-root relatives evacuation (noun) · vacant (adjective) · vacation (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

vac — be empty

vad (root)

Root

Meaning: go

Same-root relatives invade (verb) · evade (verb) · pervade (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vad — go

vag (root)

Root

Meaning: wander, roam, rove

Same-root relatives vague (adjective) · extravagant (adjective) · extravaganza (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vag — wander, roam, rove

val (root)

Root

Meaning: be strong, be of value

Same-root relatives value (noun / verb) · valuable (noun / adjective) · evaluate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

val — be strong, be of value

van (root)

Root

Meaning: empty, illusory

Same-root relatives vanish (verb) · vanity (noun) · evanescence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

van — empty, illusory

vant (root)

Root

Meaning: from before

Same-root relatives advantage (noun) · disadvantage (noun / verb) · advantageous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vant — from before

vap (root)

Root

Meaning: steam, spoiled, flat

Same-root relatives vapor (noun) · evaporate (verb) · evaporation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vap — steam, spoiled, flat

vaquero (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

A cowboy or cattle worker in the Spanish-speaking ranching tradition.

Root & originvac — cow Vaquero is Spanish for a cattle worker, from vaca, meaning cow, ultimately from Latin vacca. Buckaroo is an English borrowing of vaquero.

Same-root relativesvaqueros · buckaroo · vaca (Spanish: cow)

Word-history source

Word history: Merriam-Webster

See it in context

Mexican vaqueros taught Anglo ranchers and cowboys techniques for roping, branding, and handling cattle.
YPT 137

Ch. 7

var (root)

Root

Meaning: bent

Same-root relatives prevaricate (verb) · prevarication (noun) · curve (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

var — bent

vari (root)

Root

Meaning: different, diverse

Same-root relatives various (adjective) · variety (noun) · varied (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vari — different, diverse

vas (root)

Root

Meaning: go, proceed, advance

Same-root relatives invasion (noun) · evasive (adjective) · evasion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vas — go, proceed, advance

vast (root)

Root

Meaning: huge

Same-root relatives vast (adjective) · devastating (adjective) · devastation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vast — huge

vect (root)

Root

Meaning: carried

Same-root relatives vector (noun) · convection (noun) · invective (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vect — carried

veh (root)

Root

Meaning: carry, bring

Same-root relatives vehicle (noun) · vehement (adjective) · vehemence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

veh — carry, bring

vel (root)

Root

Meaning: curtain

Same-root relatives revelation (noun) · revelatory (adjective) · reveal (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vel — curtain

ven (root)

Root

Meaning: come

Same-root relatives avenue (noun) · convenient (adjective) · intervene (verb)

Membean word-part reference

ven — come

ven (root)

Root

Meaning: sale

Same-root relatives vendor (noun) · venal (adjective) · venality (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ven — sale

vener (root)

Root

Meaning: worship, revere, honor

Same-root relatives venerable (adjective) · venerate (verb) · veneration (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vener — worship, revere, honor

veng (root)

Root

Meaning: get even, revenge

Same-root relatives revenge (noun / verb) · vengeance (noun) · avenge (verb)

Membean word-part reference

veng — get even, revenge

vent (root)

Root

Meaning: come

Same-root relatives prevent (verb) · eventually (adverb) · event (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vent — come

ver (root)

Root

Meaning: fear

Same-root relatives reverend (noun / adjective) · revere (noun / verb) · irreverence (noun)

Membean word-part reference

ver — fear

ver (root)

Root

Meaning: truth

Same-root relatives very (adjective / adverb) · verify (verb) · veritable (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

ver — truth

verb (root)

Root

Meaning: word

Same-root relatives verb (noun) · verbal (adjective) · adverb (noun)

Membean word-part reference

verb — word

verd (root)

Root

Meaning: green

Same-root relatives verdant (adjective) · verdure (noun)

Membean word-part reference

verd — green

verg (root)

Root

Meaning: move

Same-root relatives verge (noun / verb) · divergent (adjective) · converge (verb)

Membean word-part reference

verg — move

vers (root)

Root

Meaning: turned

Root & originvert / vers — turn Vert and vers come from Latin vertere, meaning to turn, and its related form versus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives diversity (noun) · university (noun) · diverse (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vers — turned

vert (root)

Root

Meaning: turn

Root & originvert / vers — turn Vert and vers come from Latin vertere, meaning to turn, and its related form versus.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives convert (noun / verb) · vertex (noun) · vertical (noun / adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vert — turn

vest (root)

Root

Meaning: clothing, garments

Same-root relatives invest (verb) · investment (noun) · vest (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

vest — clothing, garments

vestig (root)

Root

Meaning: footprint

Same-root relatives investigation (noun) · investigate (verb) · investigative (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vestig — footprint

veter (root)

Root

Meaning: old, long-standing

Same-root relatives veteran (noun) · veterinary (noun / adjective) · inveterate (adjective / adverb)

Membean word-part reference

veter — old, long-standing

veteran (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

A person who has served in the armed forces; more broadly, someone with long experience in an activity.

Root & originveter — old or experienced Veteran comes from Latin veteranus, meaning old or experienced, from vetus, with the form veteris, meaning old.

Same-root relativesveterans · inveterate

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The veteran returned from military service and joined a campaign for equal rights.

Ch. 15

15 Calls for Change

vex (root)

Root

Meaning: annoy

Same-root relatives vex (verb) · vexation (noun) · vexatious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vex — annoy

vey (root)

Root

Meaning: see, look at

Same-root relatives survey (noun / verb) · surveyor (noun) · purveyor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vey — see, look at

vi (root)

Root

Meaning: road, way, journey

Same-root relatives previous (adjective) · obvious (adjective) · trivial (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vi — road, way, journey

vibr (root)

Root

Meaning: shake, quickly move to and fro

Same-root relatives vibrant (adjective) · vibrate (verb) · vibrancy (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vibr — shake, quickly move to and fro

vic (root)

Root

Meaning: instead of, change

Same-root relatives vice (noun) · vicar (noun) · vicarious (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vic — instead of, change

vid (root)

Root

Meaning: see, take care

Same-root relatives providence (noun) · evidence (noun / verb) · provide (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vid — see, take care

view (root)

Root

Meaning: see, perceive

Same-root relatives view (noun / verb) · interviewer (noun) · viewpoint (noun)

Membean word-part reference

view — see, perceive

vig (root)

Root

Meaning: act, be lively

Same-root relatives vigorous (adjective) · vigilance (noun) · vigor (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vig — act, be lively

vil (root)

Root

Meaning: mean, base

Same-root relatives revile (verb) · vile (adjective) · vileness (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vil — mean, base

vin (root)

Root

Meaning: wine

Same-root relatives vine (noun) · vinegar (noun) · vineyard (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vin — wine

vinc (root)

Root

Meaning: conquer, win

Same-root relatives convince (verb) · convincing (adjective) · invincible (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vinc — conquer, win

vindic (root)

Root

Meaning: avenger, defender, revenge

Same-root relatives vindication (noun) · vindictive (adjective) · vindicate (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vindic — avenger, defender, revenge

vir (root)

Root

Meaning: poison

Same-root relatives virus (noun) · virulence (noun) · virulent (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

vir — poison

virt (root)

Root

Meaning: excellence of character

Same-root relatives virtue (noun) · virtually (adverb) · virtuoso (noun)

Membean word-part reference

virt — excellence of character

vis (root)

Root

Meaning: see, look at, observe

Same-root relatives visualize (verb) · vision (noun) · visit (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

vis — see, look at, observe

visc (root)

Root

Meaning: birdlime

Same-root relatives viscosity (noun) · viscid (adjective) · viscous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

visc — birdlime

viscer (root)

Root

Meaning: entrails, internal organs

Same-root relatives visceral (adjective) · evisceration (noun) · viscera (noun)

Membean word-part reference

viscer — entrails, internal organs

visualize (verb)

Word of the day

To form a mental picture of something.

Root & originvis / vid — see Visualize is built from visual, related to Latin videre, meaning to see, and its related form visus.

Same-root relativesvision · visual · visualization · visible

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

visual + -ize

visual: related to seeing · -ize: make or perform

Here visualize means form a mental image.

See it in context

A map helps readers visualize the distance migrants traveled.

Foundations

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

vit (root)

Root

Meaning: flaw, defect

Same-root relatives vitiate (verb) · vitiated (adjective) · vitiation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vit — flaw, defect

vit (root)

Root

Meaning: life

Same-root relatives vital (adjective) · vitality (noun) · vitamin (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vit — life

viv (root)

Root

Meaning: live

Same-root relatives survive (verb) · survivor (noun) · vivid (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

viv — live

voc (root)

Root

Meaning: call

Root & originvoc / voke — voice or call Voc and voke connect Latin vox, meaning voice, with vocare, meaning to call.

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Same-root relatives advocate (verb) · vocal (noun / adjective) · vociferous (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

voc — call

vocat (root)

Root

Meaning: called, called upon

Same-root relatives vocational (adjective) · vocation (noun) · evocation (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vocat — called, called upon

void (root)

Root

Meaning: empty

Same-root relatives avoid (verb) · unavoidable (adjective) · avoidance (noun)

Membean word-part reference

void — empty

vok (root)

Root

Meaning: call, call upon

Same-root relatives evoke (verb) · invoke (verb) · provoke (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vok — call, call upon

vol (root)

Root

Meaning: wish, want

Same-root relatives voluntary (adjective) · volunteer (noun / verb / adjective) · volition (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vol — wish, want

volat (root)

Root

Meaning: fly, move swiftly, speed

Same-root relatives volatile (adjective) · volatility (noun)

Membean word-part reference

volat — fly, move swiftly, speed

volum (root)

Root

Meaning: book

Same-root relatives volume (noun) · voluminous (adjective) · volumetric (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

volum — book

volut (root)

Root

Meaning: rolled, wrapped up

Same-root relatives revolution (noun) · revolutionary (noun / adjective) · evolution (noun)

Membean word-part reference

volut — rolled, wrapped up

volv (root)

Root

Meaning: roll, wrap up, turn round

Same-root relatives involved (adjective) · involve (verb) · involvement (noun)

Membean word-part reference

volv — roll, wrap up, turn round

vor (root)

Root

Meaning: eat

Same-root relatives carnivore (noun) · carnivorous (adjective) · herbivore (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vor — eat

vot (root)

Root

Meaning: promise, pledge

Same-root relatives vote (noun / verb) · voting (noun) · devotion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vot — promise, pledge

vouch (root)

Root

Meaning: call, call upon

Same-root relatives vouch (verb) · vouchsafe (verb) · avouch (verb)

Membean word-part reference

vouch — call, call upon

vulg (root)

Root

Meaning: make common, publish

Same-root relatives vulgar (adjective) · divulge (verb) · vulgarism (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vulg — make common, publish

vuls (root)

Root

Meaning: pluck, tear up

Same-root relatives revulsion (noun) · convulse (verb) · convulsion (noun)

Membean word-part reference

vuls — pluck, tear up

wan (root)

Root

Meaning: lessen

Same-root relatives want (noun / verb) · wanting (adjective) · wane (noun / verb)

Membean word-part reference

wan — lessen

wartime mobilization (noun phrase)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The organization of people, industry, supplies, and other resources to support a war effort.

Root & originmobil — movable Mobilize is built from Latin mobilis, meaning movable, related to movere, to move.

Same-root relativesmobile · mobility · mobilize · mobilization · immobile

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Wartime mobilization increased production and changed the demand for labor.

Ch. 14

14 WW2

wast (root)

Root

Meaning: desolate, laid waste

Same-root relatives waste (noun / verb / adjective) · wasteful (adjective) · wasteland (noun)

Membean word-part reference

wast — desolate, laid waste

whiteness (noun)

Word of the dayChapter vocabulary

The socially constructed category of being considered white, including the meanings, status, and advantages attached to it in a particular society.

Root & originwhite — a color White comes from Old English hwit. Whiteness is white plus -ness; its racial meaning comes from social history, not from the color word alone.

Same-root relativeswhite · whiten · whitish · nonwhite

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

Build the word

white + -ness

white: racial category in this historical context · -ness: state or quality

The base retains its final e. The course uses whiteness to examine a social category and its associated power.

See it in context

The historian studies how the boundaries of whiteness changed over time.

Ch. 6

6 Irish

Word-part references

Dictionary reference 1 ↗

writ (root)

Root

Meaning: write

Same-root relatives write (verb) · writer (noun) · written (adjective)

Membean word-part reference

writ — write

Yiddish (proper noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The language many Jewish immigrants had spoken in Russia.

Root & originYid — Jew Yiddish comes from Yiddish yidish, meaning Jewish, built from Yid, meaning Jew, and an adjective ending.

Same-root relativesYid (Yiddish: Jew) · yidish (Yiddish: Jewish) · Yiddishist

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

Learning English could aid assimilation while creating tension with family members who spoke Yiddish.
YPT 229

Ch. 11

zeal (root)

Root

Meaning: eager rivalry, fierceness

Same-root relatives zeal (noun) · zealot (noun) · zealotry (noun)

Membean word-part reference

zeal — eager rivalry, fierceness

Zionism (noun)

Chapter vocabulary

The movement for a Jewish homeland.

Root & originZion — a place name Zionism is Zion plus -ism. Zion is a Hebrew place name associated with Jerusalem; its earlier meaning is uncertain.

Same-root relativesZion · Zionist · anti-Zionist

Word-history source

Word history: Etymonline

See it in context

The chapter describes increased Jewish American support for Zionism after the Holocaust.
YPT 291

Ch. 14

Words of the day follow the course plan and can also be morphemes. Chapter vocabulary connects to the reading. The word-part collection includes every entry in the Membean root index, with separate meanings and source links retained.