Question

what is the word root of memorialize?

me-
-ize
mem
memorial

Explanation:

Analyze the structure of the word

The word "memorialize" can be broken down into its morphological components: the root, the suffix, and any inflections.

Identify the root and affixes

• The base word is "memorial," which itself comes from the Latin root memor (meaning "mindful" or "remembering").
• The suffix "-ize" is added to the base to form a verb meaning "to make into a memorial" or "to preserve the memory of."
• Among the given options, "mem" represents the core Latin root (memor / mem) associated with memory and remembering.

Evaluate the options

• "me-": This is not a recognized morphological root for this word.
• "-ize": This is a suffix, not a root.
• "mem": This is the correct root, originating from the Latin memor (mindful/remembering).
• "memorial": This is a base word derived from the root, not the root itself.

Answer:

• (A) me-
• (B) -ize
• (C) mem (Correct answer)
• (D) memorial