A neologism refers to a newly coined word or phrase that achieves common usage.

Neologisms are a natural part of language evolution, emerging to describe new concepts or technologies. They also develop when there’s a need to communicate in a covert way. In queer culture, for example, neologisms emerged as coded references, allowing queer people to identify one another in public without outing themselves.

Neologisms are a literary device. They’re an umbrella term for any made-up words. For example, a portmanteau, which refers to a made-up word, created by Frankenstein-ing other words or word parts together, is a type of neologism.

Since language is constantly changing, neologisms play a key role in keeping our vocabulary fresh and relevant.

Origin of the Word Neologism

The word neologism itself comes from the combination of two words: "neos," meaning new, and "logos," meaning word. Neologisms enter the lexicon in various ways, such as by combining existing words, attaching new meanings to old words, or simply inventing entirely new terms.

While some neologisms are fleeting slang words, others become permanently integrated into the language. To achieve this status, a neologism must be widely adopted and used consistently over time. It may be included in dictionaries once it achieves this level of ubiquity and staying power in the culture.

For example, in corporate work culture, “synergy” emerged as a common term for teamwork. This word is totally made up. And yet, it stuck.

Why a Newly Coined Word Emerges

A newly formed word can emerge for many reasons. It might be to identify new objects or concepts, express ideas in innovative ways, or enhance precision and efficiency in communication. Neologisms often arise organically through popular culture, but in some cases they are deliberately coined.

A relatively rare form of neologism is when proper names are borrowed as words, which take on an entirely new meaning in other cultures. For example, the word boycott originates from Englishman Charles Boycott’s last name.

The History of Neologisms

The act of coining new words has taken place throughout the history of language. William Shakespeare is often hailed as the champion of neologisms, having invented or popularized over 1,700 words, including "amazement," "lonely," and "swagger," which are still in use today. Virtually every major author throughout history has introduced their share of neologisms.

In the 20th century, the immense cultural impact of mass media and advertising led to an explosion of neologisms. Newly minted words and catchphrases from radio, television, and movies quickly entered the cultural lexicon. The digital revolution in recent decades has only accelerated this process, with new technologies and social media providing fertile ground for linguistic innovation.

English Neologisms in Practice

The English language has a rich tradition of borrowing words from other languages while also inventing words of its own. Every field produces its own set of specialized vocabulary to discuss new developments and ideas. In business, neologisms like "ideation" and "disruptive" have become ubiquitous.

Technology is also a hotbed for neologisms. We constantly need new phrases and descriptors to identify new devices, apps, and processes. Recent examples include "smartphone," "podcast," "crowdsourcing," and "blockchain." The casual banter of social media also launches countless neologisms, such as "selfie," "troll," and "photobomb."

Pop culture is another major engine of neologisms. Cultural touchstones from TV shows, movies, music and other media often produce words and phrases that enter mainstream usage. The regifting episode from Seinfeld (hilarious) made regifting a mainstream word and idea.

Neologisms, which start as slang or jargon, often arise from popular culture, trends, or the need for a new term. Through this process, what seems like a strange new coinage today can become just another useful word tomorrow, seamlessly integrated into our ever-evolving language. ⬥