How do you define a word in linguistics?

A Word is a basically a linguistic sign. The sign can be phonetic, visual, or tactile. Words represent objects, ideas, moods, actions, qualities, and quantities. They are the basis for forming the syntax in a language. Words are the smallest meaningful elements in a language functioning as building blocks for the construction of larger linguistic units expressing more complete thoughts such as phrases, clauses, and sentences. In the English language, Words can be grouped into nine types called parts of speech. They are verbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, conjunctions, interjections, and numbers. Verbs describe actions, events, and conditions that are being performed or occurring in time and space. They are the most important Words because you can't form complete sentences without them. You can even form complete sentences by using only verbs. They are also the most complex Words because they can take many different forms. Nouns are naming Words for concrete and abstract objects, actions, and conditions. Pronouns are substitute Words for nouns. Adjectives are modifying Words that describe the qualities or attributes of a noun. Adverbs are simply modifying Words for adjectives, verbs, or other adverbs. Prepositions mainly relate other Words with regards to time and space. Conjunctions join other Words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence. Interjections are Words that express strong emotions such as joy, surprise, and anger. Most swearWords are used as interjections. And numbers are Words indicating some totality or whole and the individuals or parts therein. Numbers are used for counting, ordering, calculating, measuring, and labeling.