How does the suffix in gymnastics change meaning of base word?

The suffix "-ics" in "gymnastics" doesn't really change the meaning of the base word in the same way that a suffix like "-ing" or "-er" would. Here's why:

* "Gymnastics" is not derived from a simple base word. It comes from the Greek word "gymnastikē", which itself referred to the art and practice of exercise.

* "-ics" signifies a system or practice. In this case, "-ics" indicates the system or practice of physical exercises for developing and maintaining physical fitness.

Therefore, "gymnastics" is not a word that has a base word and a suffix changing its meaning. It is a word that was formed in Greek and adopted into English, with "-ics" functioning as a marker of a system or practice.