prefixsuffixal
Prefixsuffixal is a neologism used in linguistic discussions to describe a word or stem that readily accepts affixes in both prefix and suffix positions to form related derivatives. The term highlights the productive potential of a base to generate new forms by adding affixes on either side.
Etymology and usage: The word combines prefix, suffix, and the adjectival suffix -al. It is not part
Definition and criteria: A prefixsuffixal base typically shows high productivity for both prefixation and suffixation within
- read: unread, reading, reader
- use: reuse, useful, usability
- play: replay, playful, playfulness
Limitations: Prefixsuffixal is a conceptual descriptor rather than a formal category in most grammars. Not every
See also: affixation, derivational morphology, prefixal, suffixal, circumfix.