What is a suffix?

• A. A word added to the beginning of a root word
• B. A word that seems like a verb but acts as another part of speech
• C. A word added to the end of a root word to change its meaning
• D. A reference to another work of literature

Answer: (C)

A suffix is defined as a word added to the end of a root word that modifies or changes its meaning. For instance, adding the suffix “-ness” to the adjective "happy" creates the noun "happiness," shifting the focus from a description to a state of being. Suffixes can change not only the meaning of a word but also its part of speech. This understanding of suffixes is crucial in language arts, as it allows students to expand their vocabulary and comprehend the nuances of word formation.

The other options provide definitions that do not accurately capture what a suffix is; one describes a prefix, another addresses a part of speech concept, and the last refers to literary references, which are unrelated to the definition of suffixes.