Augments – Definition & Meaning

Augments are a part of our daily lives, but many of us may not be familiar with the term. Augments are a type of word that is used to modify or enhance another word, phrase, or sentence. They can be used to add emphasis, provide additional information, or clarify meaning. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of augments, their origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.

Definitions

Augments are defined as words that are used to add emphasis, provide additional information, or clarify meaning. They are often used in conjunction with other words to modify their meaning. Augments can be adjectives, adverbs, or other parts of speech.

Origin

The word augment comes from the Latin word “augmentum,” which means “increase” or “growth.” The word was first used in English in the 15th century and has been used ever since.

Meaning in different dictionaries

Different dictionaries define augments in various ways. According to Merriam-Webster, an augment is “a vowel prefixed or a lengthening of the initial vowel to mark past time especially in Greek and Sanskrit verbs.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “something that adds to or enhances something else.”

Associations

Augments are often associated with language and communication. They are used to modify and enhance words and phrases to convey a more precise meaning. Augments are also used in many different fields, including science, technology, and medicine.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of augments include enhances, amplifies, intensifies, and supplements. These words are often used interchangeably with augments to convey a similar meaning.

Antonyms

Antonyms of augments include diminishes, reduces, decreases, and minimizes. These words are used to convey the opposite effect of augmenting.

The same root words

The word augment has several root words that are related to its meaning. These include “augere” in Latin, which means “to increase,” and “auxein” in Greek, which means “to grow.”

Example Sentences

1. The use of technology has augmented the efficiency of our business operations.
2. The professor augmented his lecture with additional examples to clarify the concept.
3. The company decided to augment their product line with new features to attract more customers.
4. The athlete’s training regimen was augmented with a new diet plan to improve performance.
5. The artist used color to augment the emotion conveyed in the painting.