Definition

1. Noun:
   • A portmanteau word is a single new word created by blending parts of two or more other words and combining their meanings. The term itself comes from the French word for a large travelling bag that opens into two equal parts, suggesting how two words are packed into one.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • 'Brunch' is a classic portmanteau word combining 'breakfast' and 'lunch'.
  • The author invented a portmanteau word by merging 'glitter' and 'literature' to form 'glitterature'.
  • Many modern brand names are clever portmanteau words.

Advanced Usage

• The process of forming a portmanteau word is called blending or portmanteau.
  • Linguists study the rules of blending that govern how portmanteau words are formed.
• Portmanteau words are often created for efficiency, humor, or to describe new concepts.
  • The portmanteau word 'hangry' (hungry + angry) efficiently describes a specific common feeling.

Variants and Related Words

• Blend (n): Often used synonymously with 'portmanteau word'.
  • 'Smog' is a blend of 'smoke' and 'fog'.
• Portmanteau (n): Can be used as a shorter synonym for 'portmanteau word'.
  • 'Spork' is a portmanteau of 'spoon' and 'fork'.

Synonyms

• Blend
• Fusion word
• Amalgam (in a linguistic context)

Related Phrases

• To coin a portmanteau: To invent a new portmanteau word.
  • The writer coined a portmanteau to name the new technology.
• Portmanteau formation: The linguistic process of creating such words.

Related Idioms

• A textbook example of a portmanteau word: A perfect or classic instance.
  • 'Motel' is a textbook example of a portmanteau word.

Noun

1. a new word formed by joining two others and combining their meanings
   • `smog' is a blend of `smoke' and `fog'
   • `motel' is a portmanteau word made by combining `motor' and `hotel'
   • `brunch' is a well-known portmanteau