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principal parts
plural noun
: a series of verb forms from which all the other forms of a verb can be derived including in English the infinitive, the past tense, and the present and past participles
Examples of principal parts in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
One of the principal parts is bringing kidnapped children home.
—Liz Friden, Fox News, 27 Oct. 2023
Others also playing principal parts in the show include Paddy Considine as King Viserys, Matt Smith as Prince Daemon, and Emily Carey and Olivia Cooke as the younger and older versions of Alicent Hightower.
—Chelsey Sanchez, Harper's BAZAAR, 21 Aug. 2022
There are three principal parts of this logistical acrobatics; tech, shipping, and warehousing.
—Cassell Ferere, Forbes, 26 May 2022
Biden also has made ending Trump’s presidency after one term a principal part of his campaign message, and the new poll underscores the degree to which he is seen — and by a wide margin — as the Democrat best positioned to do that.
—Scott Clement, BostonGlobe.com, 8 Sep. 2019
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Word History
First Known Use
1714, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near principal parts
Cite this Entry
“Principal parts.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/principal%20parts. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
principal parts
plural noun
: the infinitive, the past tense, and the past and present participles of an English verb
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