noun

circumfix

SUR-kum-fiks

Quiz me More like this

Circumfix (noun) means In grammar, an affix made up of a prefix part and a suffix part that function together as one unit. Example: “Linguists point to circumfixes in several world languages as markers of tense or aspect.”

noun

technical In grammar, an affix made up of a prefix part and a suffix part that function together as one unit.

"Linguists point to circumfixes in several world languages as markers of tense or aspect."

"The linguist explained how a circumfix wraps around the root of a word."

"Some languages use a circumfix rather than a simple prefix or suffix."

verb

technical In grammar, to attach a circumfix to a word.

"The textbook shows how to circumfix a verb stem in this language."

"Speakers circumfix the root to form the past tense."

How to use circumfix

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA circumfix is a word part added both before and after a root, working as a single piece.

When to use it

This is a technical term from linguistics, not used in everyday conversation.

Memory tip

Picture it wrapping fully around the word, since circum- means around.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

prefix → suffix →

Common pairings

circumfix a word circumfix a verb stem a circumfix marking tense

Vocabulary Flow

Build your vocabulary from words like circumfix.

Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.

Start vocabulary practice

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “circumfix” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Linguists point to _____ in several world languages as markers of tense or aspect.

Etymology

The word is built from circum-, meaning around, joined to -fix, the ending used for affixes. It was formed to describe an affix that surrounds a word rather than sitting only before or after it.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

ambifix confix

Frequently asked questions

What is a circumfix in linguistics?

A circumfix is a single affix that has both a prefix part and a suffix part attached to a word at the same time.

How is a circumfix different from a prefix or suffix?

A prefix goes only before a word and a suffix only after it, while a circumfix does both together as one unit.

Can circumfix be used as a verb?

Yes, to circumfix a word means to attach a circumfix to it.

What is the meaning of circumfix?

"circumfix" (noun) means in grammar, an affix made up of a prefix part and a suffix part that function together as one unit.