Kunmetaoj

Kunmetaoj is a term used in Esperanto grammar to refer to compound words. In Esperanto, compounding is a very productive and important aspect of word formation. It involves combining two or more roots, affixes, or even entire words to create a new word with a combined meaning. The core principle of Esperanto compounding is that the last element in the compound determines the part of speech and the basic meaning of the new word, while the preceding elements modify or specify that meaning.

For example, the word "librotenilo" is a kunmetaĵo formed from "libro" (book) and "tenilo" (holder). The last element, "tenilo," indicates that the word is a noun referring to something that holds. "Librotenilo" therefore means "book holder" or "bookmark." Another example is "akvopulŝilo," derived from "akvo" (water) and "pulŝilo" (pusher). This compound means "water pump."

Esperanto's system of affixes also plays a role in kunmetaĵoj, as affixes can be combined with roots or other affixes to create complex words. The clarity and regularity of Esperanto's compounding rules make it a highly efficient language for word creation. This system allows for the creation of a vast vocabulary from a relatively small set of root words and affixes.