LEXICAL DEFINITION Meaning and
Definition
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A lexical definition refers to the explicit and formal explanation of the meaning of a word or term within a specific language. It aims to provide a precise and concise description of a word's usage, denotation, and connotation, in order to establish a common understanding among language users.
These definitions are typically found in dictionaries, encyclopedias, and other linguistic resources, and are derived from the actual usage of words in a particular language or community. Lexical definitions vary depending on the intended audience and the context in which the word is used. They can be either descriptive, trying to capture how the word is commonly used, or prescriptive, providing guidance on how the word should be used.
A lexical definition typically includes several elements. First, it provides the word being defined, followed by a brief statement that distinguishes it from other similar words. It then further explains the meaning, often employing synonyms, antonyms, or examples to elucidate the concept. Additionally, lexical definitions may include information on etymology, alternative meanings, or differentiating factors across dialects or specialized fields.
Moreover, it is important to differentiate between lexical definitions and stipulative definitions. While lexical definitions describe how a word is commonly used, stipulative definitions introduce new meanings to a word, often coining a term or assigning a specialized meaning within a particular domain.
Etymology of LEXICAL DEFINITION
The word "lexical" comes from the Greek "lexis", which means "word" or "speech", and the word "definition" has its roots in the Latin word "definitio", meaning "a bounding, settling, or defining". Therefore, the etymology of the word "lexical definition" combines the Greek and Latin roots to describe a definition that specifically concerns the linguistic representation or meaning of a word.
