Forming New Words with Suffixes: The Case of 'Infant'

This question asks us to identify a correct suffix that can be added to the base word 'Infant' to create a valid new word from the given options.

Analyzing Suffix Options

Let's examine each option to see if adding the suffix forms a meaningful English word:

• Option 1: Adding '-dom' to 'Infant' gives 'Infantdom'. This word refers to the state or period of being an infant or the condition of being very young or inexperienced. It is a valid word.
• Option 2: Adding '-ry' to 'Infant' gives 'Infantry'. This word refers to soldiers who fight on foot, as distinguished from cavalry or air forces. It is a recognized English word.
• Option 3: Adding '-cy' to 'Infant' gives 'Infancy'. This word refers to the state or period of being an infant; early childhood. It is a common and valid English word.
• Option 4: Adding '-ish' to 'Infant' gives 'Infantish'. This word means characteristic of an infant; childish or immature. It is also a valid English word.

Identifying the Correct Suffix

The question asks for one specific suffix from the choices provided. While several options form valid words, we consider the options presented and the given correct answer.

The suffix '-ry' combines with 'Infant' to form the word 'Infantry'. This demonstrates the process of suffixation, where a suffix is added to the end of a root word to modify its meaning or grammatical function.

Therefore, the suffix '-ry' is a correct addition to the word 'Infant' to form a new word.