Version not compatible error when attempting to launch winword.exe

System/software Info:
On a fairly new Toshiba labtop. Windows 7 Home Premium Addition (64-bit). Microsoft Office 2010. All worked.

Issue:
Now when I attempt to open word documents or even word, itself, I receive the following error:

"The version of this file is not compatible with the version of Windows you're running. Check your computer's system information to see whether you need an x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit) version of the program, and then contact the software publisher."

Troubleshooting so far:
- Antivirus run was clear.
- I'm able to launch other 2010 programs/files (like Excel, Powerpoint) without issue.
- Confirmed file associations appear to be normal.
- Attmepted to launch word in safe mode -- same error.

Appreciate any help on this particular issue (or pointing me to a place to read up on this one).

Thanks,

Chris