Pronoun

Definition

The noun "pronoun" refers to (1) a word that replaces a noun or noun phrase to avoid repetition; and (2) the part of speech comprising such substitute words.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈproʊ.naʊn/
• Respelling: PRO-noun

British English

• IPA: /ˈprəʊ.naʊn/
• Respelling: PRO-nown

Etymology

From Latin prōnōmen “for a name,” from pro- “for” + nōmen “name.” Entered English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Pronominal (adjective)
• Pronominally (adverb)
• Pronominalize (verb)

Synonyms

• Substitute
• Pro-form
• Placeholder

Antonyms

• Noun

Usage

"Pronoun" appears in grammar and linguistics. Examples: "She used a pronoun to avoid repeating the noun," and "In English, 'who' is a relative pronoun."

Related Terms

• Noun: A word that names a person, place, thing, or idea.
• Personal pronoun: Refers to participants like "I," "you," "they."
• Demonstrative pronoun: Points to specific things like "this," "those."
• Relative pronoun: Introduces clauses like "who," "which."
• Interrogative pronoun: Introduces questions like "what," "whom."

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• A word that replaces a noun or noun phrase: Refers to someone or something previously mentioned.
  • Example: "If Sarah calls, tell her I'll call back."
• A word indicating person, number, gender, or case without naming the noun: Expresses grammatical features of an entity.
  • Example: "They are arriving at noon."
• A word introducing a relative or interrogative clause: Links clauses or forms questions.
  • Example: "The person who called left a message."