Piece

Definition

A "piece" is a part or segment of something larger, or an individual item of a whole.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /piːs/
• Respelling: PEES

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /piːs/
• Respelling: PEES

Etymology

The word "piece" comes from the Old French "piece," derived from Vulgar Latin "pettia," meaning "fragment or part." It entered Middle English in the 13th century, retaining its meaning as a part of a whole.

Derivatives

• Piecewise (adjective)
• Piecing (verb)
• Piecework (noun)
• Repiece (verb)
• Masterpiece (noun)

Synonyms

• Segment
• Fragment
• Part

Antonyms

• Whole
• Total
• None

Usage

The word "piece" is used in various contexts, such as objects, works of art, or components. For example: "Can I have a piece of cake?" or "This is a beautiful piece of artwork."

Related Terms

• Portion: A part of something divided into sections.
• Shard: A small broken piece, often of glass or pottery.
• Element: A fundamental or essential part of a whole.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A part of a whole: Refers to a portion or section of something larger.
  • Example: "She ate a piece of the chocolate bar."
• A work of art or creation: Describes an artistic or creative work.
  • Example: "The sculpture was a remarkable piece."
• An individual item: Refers to a single object from a set or group.
  • Example: "The game is missing one piece."

Verb

• To assemble or mend by combining parts: Refers to the act of putting fragments together.
  • Example: "She pieced the quilt together using fabric scraps."