Neologism

Quick meaning: Neologism is a noun meaning (linguistics, lexicography, countable) A word or phrase which has recently been coined; a new word or phrase.

Meaning

(linguistics, lexicography, countable) A word or phrase which has recently been coined; a new word or phrase.

More Meanings

1. (linguistics, lexicography, countable, by extension) An existing word or phrase which has gained a new meaning.
2. (linguistics, uncountable) The act or instance of coining, or uttering a new word.
3. (psychiatry) The newly coined, meaningless words or phrases of someone with a psychosis, usually schizophrenia.
4. (theology, historical) Synonym of neology.

Example Sentences

These neologisms demonstrate the cumulative quality of language, in which we use the known to describe the unknown.

Neologizing, the practice of coining new words, may seem to be an arcane, specialized activity, but it's everywhere -- and the skillful employment of neologism is what gives English much of its verve.

Word Forms

• neologisms

Synonyms for neologism

Depending on context, synonyms include coinage, neoterism, neology.

Antonyms for neologism

Common opposites include paleologism.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include neology, coinage, neologianism, neonism, neologization, neonym.

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