Some root words + ~cide – ESL Lesson, FAQs, and Quiz

Root word + ~cide ESL Lesson

Root words are the fundamental building blocks of words, providing the core meaning to which affixes like prefixes and suffixes are added to form new words. The suffix “~cide” comes from the Latin word “caedere,” meaning “to kill.” When combined with various root words, “~cide” forms nouns and verbs that relate to killing or eradicating something specific. This suffix can help students of English better understand and expand their vocabulary by recognizing patterns in word formation.

  • homicide– killing a person
  • suicide– killing one’s self
  • infanticide– killing babies
  • genocide– killing large groups of people (like a race of people)
  • insecticide– killing insects
  • pesticide– also means killing insects
  • herbicide– killing plants

Practice Quiz on Root Words + ~cide

Test your understanding of root words combined with the “~cide” suffix with this seven-question quiz. Determine the meanings of words like “biocide” and “infanticide,” guess the root word for certain ~cide words, and apply your knowledge to new or hypothetical words. This exercise will help you solidify your understanding of vocabulary related to killing or eradication.

Check Your UnderstandingMultiple Choice
Choose the correct answer. Check your answers by clicking on the arrow below.

1. There are so many bugs eating my plants. I need to buy some ___________________.

a. infanticide
b. herbicide
c. pesticide

2. During World War II, Hitler tried to kill all of the Jews by ___________________.

a. genocide
b. pesticide
c. homicide

3. My friend almost killed himself with a knife. I can’t believe he tried to commit ___________________.

a. homicide
b. suicide
c. pesticide

4. I planted these flowers but these other plants are growing too. I’m going to use this ___________________ to kill the ones I don’t want.

a. herbicide
b. insecticide
c. genocide

5. Oh, I hate all of these insects in my house. I need to use some ___________________ on them.

a. suicide
b. insecticide
c. genocide

6. Some people who don’t want their babies commit ___________________.

a. genocide
b. suicide
c. infanticide

7. This year there have been fewer ___________________ in my city. Last year twelve people were killed and this year there have been ten.

a. homicides
b. pesticides
c. herbicides

Frequently Asked Questions about Root Words + ~cide

What does the suffix ~cide mean when added to a root word?

The suffix “~cide” indicates killing or the act of killing. When added to a root word, it creates a new word that describes the eradication or death of the subject indicated by the root.

Can you give examples of common words using the ~cide suffix?

Certainly! Examples include “pesticide” (a substance for killing pests), “homicide” (the act of killing another human), and “suicide” (the act of killing oneself).

Are all words with the ~cide suffix related to negative actions?

While many ~cide words relate to negative actions due to their association with death or killing, the context in which they are used can vary. For instance, “pesticide” is often seen in a positive light when used to protect crops from pests.

How can understanding words with the ~cide suffix help in learning English?

Recognizing the ~cide suffix helps in deducing the meanings of complex words and enriching vocabulary. It also aids in understanding nuances in English where words may have similar roots but different suffixes.

What are some less common ~cide words and their meanings?

Some less commonly known words include “herbicide” (a substance that kills plants), “fungicide” (a substance that kills fungi), and “regicide” (the act of killing a king).

Answer Key:

  1. c
  2. a
  3. b
  4. a
  5. b
  6. c
  7. a