What does the suffix y do to a base word?

The suffix "-y" can do a few different things to a base word, depending on the context. Here are some common uses:

1. Forms Adjectives:

* Adding a quality or characteristic:

* Sleepy (sleep + y)

* Funny (fun + y)

* Dirty (dirt + y)

* Describing a state or condition:

* Rainy (rain + y)

* Cloudy (cloud + y)

* Windy (wind + y)

* Describing materials:

* Silky (silk + y)

* Wooly (wool + y)

* Leathery (leather + y)

2. Forms Nouns:

* Diminutive or affectionate terms:

* Puppy (pup + y)

* Birdy (bird + y)

* Mommy (mom + y)

* Individuals or things:

* Goofy (someone who is goofy)

* Smarty (someone who is smart)

* Ducky (a type of duck)

3. Forms Verbs:

* Makes a verb from a noun or adjective:

* Beautify (beautiful + y)

* Simplify (simple + y)

* Emphasize (emphasis + y)

4. Other Functions:

* Expresses emphasis or intensity:

* Truly (true + y)

* Holy (whole + y)

* Early (ear + y)

* Creates a plural noun:

* Twenties (twenty + y)

* Thirties (thirty + y)

It's important to note:

* The suffix "-y" doesn't always work with every base word.

* The meaning of the suffix can change depending on the base word and the context.

It's always a good idea to check a dictionary for the correct spelling and usage of "-y" with specific words.