Lexicalisation

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The transformation of concepts into linguistic terms occurs when expressions become part of recognized vocabulary within a language
2. The act of converting abstract ideas into established words or phrases used in a language
3. The process through which concepts are expressed and incorporated as standardized terms in speech or writing

Etymology: "Lexicalisation" is formed from "lexicalise," a verb, plus the suffix "-ation," which turns verbs into nouns of process or result. The verb "lexicalise" is itself built on "lexical," from the Greek "lexikos," meaning "of words," which came from "lexis," "word" or "speech." So the whole word is a stack of three layers: a Greek root for word, an adjective formed from it, and a verb and noun built on that adjective. The sense of the noun is the process by which a combination of sounds or elements becomes an established, recognised item in a language's vocabulary. A phrase such as "by and large" or a formation such as "sandwich" moves from being a temporary arrangement of words to a unit with its own dictionary entry. The term is used mainly in linguistics and lexicography, where it describes this change of status rather than any official act of approval.

Synonyms: lexicalization