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Portmanteau - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A portmanteau is a word formed by blending parts of two words, combining their meanings. Examples include brunch (breakfast + lunch) and smog (smoke + fog). It is commonly used in creative language.

portmanteau

/pɔrtˈmænˌtoʊ/ /pɔːtˈmæntəʊ/

Definition:

A word blending sounds and meanings of two others, like "brunch" from "breakfast" and "lunch."

Synonyms:

blend, combination, fusion, hybrid

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

separation, division

Common Collocations:

portmanteau word, linguistic portmanteau, creative portmanteau

Derivatives:

portmanteaus, portmanteaux

Usage Tips:

Use "portmanteau" to describe words formed by merging two existing words, often for humor or efficiency.

Common Phrases:

portmanteau word, portmanteau effect, portmanteau phrase

Etymology:

From French "portemanteau," meaning a coat rack or suitcase, later adapted by Lewis Carroll for blended words.

Examples:

  • 1. She coined the portmanteau "smog" from smoke and fog.
  • 2. "Brunch" is a popular portmanteau combining breakfast and lunch.
  • 3. The term "motel" is a portmanteau of motor and hotel.
  • 4. His clever portmanteau "hangry" describes being angry due to hunger.

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