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.
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.