neologisma

Neologisma is a term used in linguistics to denote a neologism: a newly coined word or expression that has recently appeared in a language and has not yet gained standard status.

Etymology and scope: The term aligns with similar words in many languages, drawing from neo- “new” and log- “word” (from logos) and having a nominal suffix such as -ismo or -isma in some traditions. In English the most common form is “neologism.”

Formation and types: Neologisma can originate through word formation processes such as affixation, blending, compounding, clipping, acronymization, borrowing, or semantic shift. They may also arise as calques or translations from other languages. Examples include blog, selfie, cryptocurrency, and hashtag.

Usage and documentation: Most neologisma begin as nonce words or are restricted to specific groups. If they spread widely, they may be documented in dictionaries and large corpora and can become part of standard vocabulary. Some remain informal, regional, or technical jargon.

Role in language change: Neologisma reflect technological, cultural, and social changes; they illustrate how speakers expand expressive resources, encode new concepts, and negotiate identity and prestige through language.

See also: neologism, coinage, lexicalization.