ABSTRACT
This research work is the Morphological Analysis of Affixes in Igbo Language. It aims to thoroughly examine various affixation forms present in Igbo, including prefixes, suffixes, interfixes, infixes, and circumfixes in Igbo language, focusing on how their structure interacts with the meanings of words. The methodology employed for data analysis is a descriptive approach, combining information from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected from natural speeches of native Igbo speakers in various contexts, and secondary sources, such as library materials and journal articles, provided additional insights. The analysis, conducted using the descriptive research method, revealed that Igbo possesses prefixes, suffixes, interfixes, infixes, and circumfixes, similar to some world languages. The study adopts Dixon's (2010) Basic Linguistic Theory, specifically within the morphology paradigm, providing a structured framework for examining the morphological aspects of affixation in Igbo. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate that affixation serves as a dynamic process in word formation within the Igbo language. The findings of the study emphasize the importance of affixation as a prevalent and significant morphological process within the Igbo language. The analysis reveals the variety of affixation, incorporating various types that contribute to the linguistic complexity of Igbo. Notably, affixes play important role in modifying word meanings and conveying grammatical information in Igbo. The language exhibits vowel harmony, influencing the selection and application of affixes and contributing to its overall linguistic structure. In Igbo, affixation involves adding morphemes to verb roots. This study is essential for preserving the Igbo language and making it accessible to younger generations. In our data analysis, we noticed certain underexamined areas in Igbo morphology: circumfixation, suprafixation, and the distinction between interfixation and infixation. Future research could look into these topics to improve our understanding of Igbo morphology. Keywords: Semantics, Morphology, Verb Root, Affixation.
