Lexeme
Definition:
A lexeme is the minimal unit of language which
- has a semantic interpretation and
- embodies a distinct cultural concept.
It is made up of one or more form-meaning composites called lexical units.
Discussion:
A lexical database is organized around lexemes, which include all the morphemes of a language, even if these morphemes never occur alone. A lexeme is conventionally listed in a dictionary as a separate entry.
See Also:
This page is an extract from the LinguaLinks Library. Version 5.0 published on CD-ROM by SIL International, 2003.