Definition
A participle is a lexical item, derived from a verb, that has some of the characteristics and functions of both verbs and adjectives.
The adjectival form of the term participle is participial.
Examples
In English, participles may be used as adjectives, and in nonfinite forms of verbs.
Here are some examples of participles:
- 'He ate a boiled egg for breakfast.'
- 'I like to see smiling faces.'
- 'You are singing a good song.'
- 'I have exercised.'
- 'He has eaten dinner already.'
- 'She got a bad sunburn while playing in the pool.'
Sources 2
- Crystal 1991, 251
- Neufeldt 1991, 985