How exactly do words become actual words?
In: 12
When they are used and understood by a community of speakers. When a new word is coined, it may be used by a small group who understand its meaning. If the word is useful and widely understood, it may become more commonly used by others, and eventually become an accepted and recognized part of the language.
For example, a new word may be introduced by mates who use it to refer to a specific concept or idea as an in-joke. If this group of friends is large or influential, the word may begin to be used by others outside of the group, and may become more widely known.
Over time, if the word continues to be used and understood by a large number of people, it may be included in dictionaries and other language reference materials, and become an official part of the language
Latest Answers