Definition of: grammar

(gram′ər) noun
1. The systematic analysis of the classes and structure of words (morphology) and of their arrangements and interrelationships in larger constructions (syntax).
2. Formerly, the study of all aspects of language, as phonology, orthography, syntax, etymology, semantics, and prosody.
3. A system of morphological and syntactical rules and principles assumed for a given language.
4. A treatise or book dealing with such rules.
5. Speech or writing considered with regard to current standard of correctness: He employs poor grammar.
6. The elements of any science or art, or a book or treatise dealing with them. [<OF gramaire <L grammatica <Gk. grammatikē (technē) literary (art) <grammata literature, orig. plural of gramma letter <graphein write. Related to GLAMOUR.]