Defining A Compound Noun.docx

Defining a Compound Noun A compound noun is two words put together to create a noun. One of the words is usually a noun; however, the other word can be a noun, adjective, or preposition. Examples of compound nouns composed entirely of nouns are: 

toothpaste



schoolhouse



breadbasket



bedroom

Compound nouns can be made up of a noun and an adjective as is the case with the word "blackboard." Underground, overboard, and above-ground are all examples of compound nouns featuring a preposition and a noun. However, sometimes the compound noun will not have a noun within it at all, yet it will still be considered a compound noun. Take the word "output." "Output" surely classifies as a noun, as it is a thing which is produced by entering input. Yet "out" is a preposition and "put" is a verb. See how compound nouns can be tricky?