lexicalization

Lexicalization is a linguistic process by which a concept, action, or phrase becomes a fixed, conventionalized lexical item within a language or sign language. It encompasses the introduction of new words through coinage, derivation, compounding, clipping, acronymization, and borrowing, as well as the reanalysis of existing sequences as single words or fixed expressions. Once lexicalized, the form and meaning of the item are treated as a unit in the lexicon and may acquire idiomatic or specialized semantics.

Lexicalization is often contrasted with grammaticalization. In grammaticalization, lexical content becomes more abstract or function-like, creating affixes or function words; in lexicalization, the content-bearing unit becomes established as a standalone word or set phrase.

The process is diachronic and sometimes synchronic. New lexical items can arise from everyday speech, technological innovation, cultural contact, or metaphorical extension. Examples include compounds like smartphone, which has become a single lexical item; or words borrowed and adapted from other languages. Likewise, phrases such as web log have lexicalized into blog. In sign languages, lexicalization refers to signs that are conventionalized units with specific meanings.

Lexicalization typically depends on frequency, functional need, social prestige, and community adoption. It plays a central role in lexicon growth, language change, and the way speakers encode new concepts or technologies.