Selskaps

Selskaps is a prefix used in Norwegian and Danish to indicate relation to social life, company, or gatherings. It derives from the noun selskap (Norwegian) or selskab (Danish), which means company, society, or a party. As a prefix, selskaps- forms compounds rather than standing alone as a separate word. The exact sense of a term formed with selskaps- depends on the head noun it attaches to.

In Norwegian and Danish, common examples include compounds such as selskapslokale, meaning a venue for social events or banquets; selskapsmiddag, referring to a formal dinner or banquet; and selskapsliv, denoting social life. Other possible formations emphasize arrangements or activities related to hosting or participating in gatherings, with the exact meaning varying by context and region.

Etymologically, selskab/selskap originates from Old Norse and Old Danish roots meaning companionship, association, or partnership, with the prefix evolving into a productive form for creating nouns that describe social or ceremonial contexts. Today, the prefix is widely used in everyday language to describe aspects of social life, events, and hospitality, particularly in Norway and Denmark.

Usage notes: selskaps- is not typically a standalone lexeme but a productive prefix in compound nouns. Its use is mostly within cultural, event, and social-life contexts. See also selskap/selskab (the base noun meaning company, society, or association) and related terms describing social organization or gatherings.