A neologism is a newly created word, expression, or usage that has recently entered a language. It may arise from the need to describe new concepts or phenomena that previously lacked an adequate term. Neologisms can originate from various sources, including technological advancements, social changes, or creative endeavors. While some neologisms grow in popularity and become established parts of the language, others may fade away as quickly as they emerge, reflecting the dynamic nature of language itself.
Neologism meaning with examples
- In the digital age, many neologisms have emerged, such as 'selfie,' which refers to a self-taken photograph. The rise of social media has accelerated this phenomenon, illustrating how language adapts to contemporary cultural practices. Selfies have not only changed our interaction with photography but have also influenced how we perceive ourselves, making 'selfie' a widely recognized element of modern vernacular.
- The term 'glamping' is a neologism that combines 'glamorous' and 'camping.' It describes a style of camping that includes luxurious accommodations and amenities. As more people seek outdoor experiences without sacrificing comfort, 'glamping' has become popular, showcasing how language evolves to encapsulate new lifestyle trends and preferences in travel and recreation.
- 'FOMO,' an acronym for 'fear of missing out,' is another example of a neologism that reflects modern societal anxieties. This term describes the apprehension individuals feel when they believe others are having experiences they are not part of. As social media highlights curated lifestyles, 'FOMO' has entered everyday conversation, illustrating how technology shapes our language and interactions.
- In the realm of literature, authors often play with language to create neologisms that enrich their narratives. For instance, in Lewis Carroll's 'Jabberwocky,' words like 'frabjous' enhance the whimsical tone of the poem. Such creative uses of neologisms demonstrate how writers can expand the limits of language to capture imagination and emotion.
Neologism Synonyms
buzz buzzword catchphrase coinage cultural shorthand fresh expression jargon lexical evolution lexical innovation linguistic innovation neology new term new vocabulary new word novelty phrase portmanteau recently coined term slang technical termNeologism Antonyms
archaism classic expression common language conventional expression conventional term dated language established term forgotten word historic term legacy language obsolete term old-fashioned term preserved term stagnation standard language standard nomenclature timeless phrase traditional word unimproved term vintage vocabulary well-known phraseNeologism Crossword Answers
7 Letters
COINAGE NEOLOGY