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neologism

English → EnglishformaltechnicalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "neologism": A neologism is a newly coined word, phrase, or expression that has recently entered a language and i

What does "neologism" mean?

A neologism is a newly coined word, phrase, or expression that has recently entered a language and is not yet fully established in everyday vocabulary. The mental image is of a fresh label being slapped onto an emerging concept or technology that didn't exist in the past, effectively filling a gap in the lexicon. In usage, the term is often applied to tech-related jargon, slang that has moved from subcultures into the mainstream, or academic terminology. While some neologisms are adopted widely and enter the dictionary, others are considered "nonce words"—transient inventions that fade away as quickly as they appear.

"neologism" in conversation

Discussing new tech slang

Is 'doomscrolling' officially a word yet?

Is 'doomscrolling' officially a word yet?

It's definitely a neologism, but it's becoming so common that it'll be in the dictionary soon.

It's definitely a neologism, but it's becoming so common that it'll be in the dictionary soon.

Used to describe a word that is new but gaining traction.

Writing a sci-fi novel

I need to invent a neologism for this new energy source.

I need to invent a neologism for this new energy source.

Make sure it sounds intuitive, or the reader will get lost.

Make sure it sounds intuitive, or the reader will get lost.

Common in creative writing contexts when inventing terminology.

"neologism" in a sentence

  1. The author used many neologisms in his science fiction novel.

    The author used many neologisms in his science fiction novel.

  2. Language evolves constantly as speakers create neologisms to describe modern experiences.

    Language evolves constantly as speakers create neologisms to describe modern experiences.

  3. While some critics dismiss new internet slang as mere noise, many such neologisms eventually become standard linguistic fixtures.

    While some critics dismiss new internet slang as mere noise, many such neologisms eventually become standard linguistic fixtures.

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