sanakirjamääre

A sanakirjamääre, which translates to "dictionary definition" or "lexical entry," is the fundamental unit of information found in a dictionary. It serves to explain the meaning, usage, and other relevant characteristics of a particular word or phrase, known as the headword. Each sanakirjamääre typically comprises several components, though the exact structure can vary between dictionaries.

The headword itself is the word or phrase being defined, usually presented in its base or most common form. Following the headword, one or more definitions are provided, aiming to clarify the word's meaning in different contexts or senses. These definitions are often numbered or otherwise distinguished if a word has multiple meanings.

Beyond definitions, a sanakirjamääre may include information about the word's grammatical properties, such as its part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, etc.) and any relevant inflections. Etymological information, tracing the origin and historical development of the word, is also a common feature. Examples of the word used in sentences illustrate its practical application and help readers understand its nuances. Pronunciation guides, often using phonetic transcription, are frequently included to aid correct articulation. Other elements that might appear are synonyms, antonyms, and labels indicating the word's register or domain, such as "formal," "informal," or "technical." The primary purpose of a sanakirjamääre is to provide a comprehensive yet accessible explanation of a linguistic unit.