1. Linguistics:
* A unit of language, consisting of one or more morphemes, that has meaning and can be used in combination with other words to form phrases and sentences. This is the most common and basic definition.
* A single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing, used with others (or sometimes alone) to form a sentence and communicate meaning.
2. General:
* A spoken or written form of a language. This definition emphasizes the physical manifestation of words.
* A message or communication. This definition focuses on the function of words as conveyors of meaning.
* A promise or guarantee. This definition is often used in informal language, like "My word is my bond."
* A piece of news or information. This definition is usually used in the plural, like "I heard some bad word on the street."
3. Other:
* A command or instruction. For example, "Word of mouth" means "to spread information by talking about it."
* A specific phrase or saying. For example, "The word on the street is..."
The specific definition of "word" depends on the context in which it is used. To understand the meaning of "word" in a particular situation, consider the surrounding text or the speaker's intent.