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portmanteau word

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Portmanteau Word

Definition: A portmanteau word is a new word that is created by blending two different words together, combining their meanings.

Examples:
  1. Smog: This word combines "smoke" and "fog." It refers to a type of air pollution that looks like fog but is made up of smoke and other harmful substances.
  2. Motel: This word blends "motor" and "hotel." It refers to a type of hotel designed for travelers with cars, often located along highways.
  3. Brunch: This is a combination of "breakfast" and "lunch." It refers to a meal that is eaten in the late morning or early afternoon, usually on weekends.
Usage Instructions:
  • You can use portmanteau words in both spoken and written English.
  • They are often used in casual conversation, marketing, and creative writing.
Advanced Usage:

Portmanteau words can also be used in various contexts, such as: - Technological Terms: "Infomercial" (information + commercial) refers to a television program that acts as both an advertisement and an informational program. - Pop Culture: "Spork" (spoon + fork) is a utensil that combines the functions of both.

Word Variants:
  • There aren't many direct variants of "portmanteau" itself, but you might encounter more portmanteau words as language evolves.
Different Meanings:
  • The term "portmanteau" originally referred to a type of suitcase that has two compartments. Over time, it has come to mean the linguistic blend we are discussing.
Synonyms:
  • Blend (in a broader sense, but not specifically linguistic)
  • Combination (though this is more general)
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "portmanteau," understanding the concept of blending can help you with idiomatic expressions that involve merging ideas.

Practice:

Try creating your own portmanteau words! Combine two words that you think describe something new. For example, you could merge "glamorous" and "camping" to create "glamping," which refers to glamorous camping experiences.

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

Synonyms

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