what kind of word is the

The word "the" is a definite article in English. It is classified as an article that functions primarily as a type of adjective, called a determiner, which specifies a particular noun that is already known or assumed familiar to the listener or reader. Additionally, "the" can sometimes function as an adverb when modifying other words. It is the most frequently used word in the English language and is used with both singular and plural nouns regardless of gender.