What does neologism mean?
A neologism is a word or expression that has recently been coined, often because speakers need to name a new concept, technology, practice, or cultural development. Examples include terms coined as science and communication advance, although some neologisms become permanent parts of ordinary vocabulary while others disappear quickly. The word can also refer, less commonly, to an unusual or obscure term, and in literary or linguistic discussion it may denote the practice of inventing new words. “Neologism” is not simply a synonym for “unfamiliar word”: its central idea is novelty in the language. The term is usually neutral in meaning, though critics may use it to dismiss a clumsy or unnecessary coinage. It is useful for discussing how vocabulary develops and how human communities adapt their language to changing experiences.
A newly coined word or expression, especially one introduced to name a new concept, object, practice, or development.
"The company’s product launch introduced several neologisms that quickly spread through the industry."
This is the dominant modern sense. The word can be neutral, but it is sometimes used dismissively for unnecessary or awkward coinages.
An unusual, obscure, or newly introduced word, especially one associated with a specialized subject or literary style.
"The author’s neologisms give the poem an unfamiliar, dreamlike atmosphere."
This sense is less common than the meaning “newly coined word” and can overlap with nonce word or rare usage.
The practice of creating or introducing new words into a language.
"The essay examines neologism in modern poetry and advertising."
This is a more specialized, chiefly literary and linguistic sense.
The plural is used when referring to more than one newly coined word or expression.
"The scholar catalogued the neologisms that appeared in the magazine during the 1920s."
Every new term that enters ordinary use begins, in a sense, as a neologism: a word born to name something our existing vocabulary cannot yet describe.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does neologism come from?
Neologism comes from the Greek neos, meaning “new,” and logos, meaning “word.” The English form emerged in the early nineteenth century in discussions of newly coined vocabulary and literary style. Its roots are reflected in related words such as neology and neologist, while the same Greek element appears in neoclassical, which combines neos with another form of classical.
Related word forms
How neologism is actually used
In its most common sense, the word is neutral or mildly formal and refers to newly created vocabulary. It can also be used more critically for an awkward, unnecessary, or short-lived invention. The broader sense covering unusual or obscure words is less common.
Easily confused with neologism
A neologism is newly coined, whereas a euphemism substitutes a milder or less direct expression for something unpleasant or uncomfortable.
A neologism is newly created, whereas an archaism is an outdated word or expression retained from an earlier period.