lexicon
LEK-sih-kon
/ˈlɛksɪkən/
The vocabulary of a person, language, or branch of knowledge.
It's a more formal and scientific way of saying 'vocabulary.' It can also refer to a dictionary of a specific language (like a Greek lexicon).
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'lexikon (biblion),' meaning 'book of words.' It is derived from 'lexis,' which simply means 'word.'
Word relationships
- vocabulary: Vocabulary is the common term; lexicon is the technical or academic term.
Commonly confused with
- dictionary: A dictionary is a physical book; a lexicon is the abstract 'bank' of words in a language or mind.
Word family
- lexical (adjective): Relating to the words or vocabulary of a language.
- lexicography (noun): The practice of compiling dictionaries.
Collocations
- mental lexicon
- personal lexicon
- medical lexicon
Example sentences
- "The lexicon of a language is the set of all its words." Linguistic textbook definition.
- "Terms like 'synergy' and 'bandwidth' have become part of the standard corporate lexicon." Describing a specific field.
Memory hook
Lexicon sounds like 'Lex' (Luthor) and 'Icon.' Imagine Lex Luthor looking at an 'Icon' that contains every word ever spoken. A library of words.
When not to use
Don't use it in casual conversation unless you want to sound very academic.
Fun facts
- Linguists use the term 'mental lexicon' to describe how the human brain stores and organizes words.
Related words
Explore more words
vocabulary, dictionary, repository, erudite, diction, multilingual
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