neologism

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A word or phrase which has recently been coined; a new word or phrase.

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

2. 2
   noun

   The act or instance of coining, or uttering a new word.

   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.

From French néologisme, from Ancient Greek νέος (néos, “new”) + λόγος (lógos, “word”) + -ism.

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