Arvsõna

Arvsõna is a term used in Estonian linguistics to refer to a specific type of word that is derived from another word, often through a process of affixation or compounding. The term "arvsõna" translates to "numeral word" in English, but it is more accurately described as a "derived numeral" or "numeral derivative." These words are formed by adding a numeral to a base word, creating a new word with a specific meaning related to the quantity or number indicated by the numeral.

For example, the word "kolmkümmend" (thirty) is an arvsõna, derived from the numeral "kolm" (three) and the base word "kümmend" (ten). Similarly, "kaksik" (twin) is an arvsõna formed from the numeral "kaks" (two) and the base word "ik" (one), indicating a pair or duplicate.

Arvsõnad are common in Estonian and play a significant role in the language's morphology. They are used to express quantities, ages, and other numerical concepts, contributing to the richness and complexity of Estonian vocabulary. The formation of arvsõnad follows specific rules and patterns, making them an interesting area of study in Estonian linguistics.