Loanword

A loanword, also known as a borrowing, is a word adopted from another language and incorporated into the vocabulary of a different language. This process reflects cultural exchange, historical influences, and the introduction of new concepts. The integration of loanwords can vary, from retaining the original spelling and pronunciation to undergoing phonetic and grammatical adaptations to conform to the receiving language's norms. Loanwords enrich the lexicon, but they can also create complexities, sometimes leading to debates about linguistic purity or the potential displacement of native terms. The extent of their integration is a dynamic process, constantly shaped by societal needs and linguistic evolution.

Loanword meaning with examples

• English has borrowed extensively from French, with words like 'cuisine', 'déjà vu', and 'rendezvous' retaining French spellings. 'Ballet' and 'genre' are also examples. These loanwords enrich culinary vocabulary. Further, 'entrepreneur' and 'savoir-faire' are common loanwords related to business. Finally, loanwords such as 'bourgeois' and 'chic' demonstrate the French influence on lifestyle terms.
• Japanese incorporates many loanwords (gairaigo) from English. Terms like 'konpyūta' (computer), 'supōtsu' (sports), and 'terebi' (television) are prevalent. Similarly, 'aipon' (iPhone) and 'sutoresu' (stress) are common modern examples. The entertainment industry also utilizes loanwords such as 'anime' and 'geemu' (game). These examples demonstrate the impact of the English language.
• Spanish has absorbed numerous loanwords from Arabic. 'Algoritmo' (algorithm), 'azúcar' (sugar), and 'ojalá' (God willing) are prominent examples. 'Almacén' (warehouse) and 'aceite' (oil) further demonstrate this influence. Moreover, loanwords like 'guitarra' (guitar) and 'naranja' (orange) are still present. 'Cero' (zero) and 'alcalde' (mayor) are further examples.
• German incorporates English loanwords related to technology and business, such as 'Computer' and 'Marketing'. 'Workshop' and 'Team' are commonly used. Similarly, 'E-Mail' and 'Software' are prevalent terms in daily use. Loanwords such as 'Chat' and 'Internet' are common in communication. The German language's ability to incorporate these loanwords is well documented.
• Swahili, a lingua franca of East Africa, adopts words from Arabic, English, and Portuguese. 'Saa' (hour, from Arabic), 'gari' (car, from English), and 'meza' (table, from Portuguese) are loanwords. 'Ofisi' (office), borrowed from English, and 'shule' (school, from German, via English) are common. The integration of these loanwords demonstrates its adaptability, allowing its speakers to communicate efficiently.