The article discusses the evolution of language and the emergence of new words, emphasizing the role of nonce words created for specific purposes. Language continually transforms, with generational contributions affecting its lexicon. Borrowing from other languages enriches English, creating terms like 'schadenfreude' and 'safari.' While some new words gain acceptance over time, many do not, and remain informal or obscure. The article mentions Lewis Carroll as an example of a notable coinage creator, demonstrating how nonce words can enter mainstream use or fade away.
These newcomers, however, aren't always welcome, and such terms may be viewed as nonstandard or colloquial for years or decades before they become respectable members of the lexicon.
New words can come into being in a variety of ways... English has been enthusiastic both as a donor and a recipient, and this helps to account for its large vocabulary.
If a term is used just once in this way, it's called a nonce word... And if the nonce word catches on, it may graduate to the status of a new word.
One prolific creator of nonce words was Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll)... Some of his coinages have become part of the language.
Collection
[
|
...
]