Roots and Bases

The base word gives the word its basic meaning

The prefixes and/or suffixes build off the meaning of the base word.

It the part of the word that's left after you remove the prefix and suffix

The root/base words gives the word its core meaning.

For example, the word unmarked -has the prefix un and suffix -ed so the base word is "mark" means with stained or damaged

Look for a prefix. A syllable (a group of letters) added to front of a word.

Look for a suffix. A syllable (a group of letters) added to front of a word.

So if you can identify the base word and determine the meaning you are on your way to understanding the meaning of the word.