chapter

UK: ˈtʃaptə | US: ˈtʃæptər

Definition
  1. n. a main division of a book, typically with a number or title

  2. n. a period of time or an episode in history or a person's life

  3. n. a local branch of a society or organization

Structure
cap <head>ter <noun suffix>
Etymology

chapter = cap<head> + ter<noun suffix>

  • cap (from Latin caput meaning "head") → Refers to the "heading" or main division of a text.
  • ter (a suffix derived from Latin -tura, indicating a result or collective noun) → Forms nouns denoting a unit or division.

Etymology Origin:
The word chapter originates from Latin capitulum, a diminutive of caput ("head"). In medieval manuscripts, texts were divided into sections marked by headings (capitula), which evolved into the modern concept of a "chapter." The term later extended metaphorically to periods of life or organizational branches, retaining the idea of a structured division.

Examples
  1. The final chapter of the novel reveals the mystery.

  2. She closed one chapter of her life and started a new career.

  3. The local chapter of the charity meets monthly.

  4. Each chapter in the textbook covers a different topic.

  5. The history book divides the war into three chapters.