Affix Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Affix, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Affix?

conj. a conjunction used to combine two different words or phrases together. In law “and” is used to bring together of two different entities into a legal binding. Like in a bank account, in wills, in real estate, etc. use of and denotes indulgence of ALL the parties in the deal and not just one.

History and Meaning of Affix

An affix is a linguistic element that is attached to the beginning or end of a base word. These elements may take many forms, including prefixes, suffixes, infixes, and circumfixes. The earliest known use of affixes dates back to the Proto-Indo-European language, which was spoken over 4,000 years ago. The concept of affixation has remained a fundamental aspect of linguistics and is used in many languages today.

In law, the term affix is also used to describe the act of attaching a seal, mark or signature to a document to make it official. This can be done by physically attaching a seal or sticker to a document, or by signing a document electronically with a digital signature.

Examples of Affix

  1. Prefixes: Unhappy, Disagree, Preheat
  2. Suffixes: Teacher, Singer, Wooden
  3. Infixes: Flu-bloody-ently (as in "flu-bloody-ently reading lemmas")
  4. Circumfixes: a- (e.g. German ablösen) and en- (e.g. Dutch enger)

Example of affixation in a legal context: John affixed his signature to the agreement, which made it legally binding.

In everyday speech: The word "unhappy" is an example of an affix, consisting of the prefix "un-" and the base word "happy."

Legal Terms Similar to Affix

  • Seal: A design, emblem or other mark that serves as evidence of authenticity or authority.
  • Signature: A person's name or mark written by himself, or by another person with his authority or consent, as a token of intention, agreement, or obligation.
  • Notarize: To certify or attest (a document) as a notary public.