Pronunciation: [tˈɛlɪskˌə͡ʊp wˈɜːd] (IPA) 
The term "telescope word" refers to a word that can be read in more than one way, depending on where you put the spaces. For example, the word "beekeeper" can also be written as "be ekeeper" or "bee keep er." This phenomenon is also known as a "portmanteau word." The IPA phonetic transcription for the word "telescope" is /ˈtɛlɪskəʊp/, with the stress on the first syllable and the final "e" being silent.
A telescope word refers to a complex term or concept that encompasses various meanings or subcategories within it. It can be described as a broad, overarching term that encompasses a range of specific ideas or sub-definitions within it, similar to how a telescope allows us to examine distant objects by adjusting its focus.
The term "telescope word" is used to capture the idea that a word or phrase can have a broad scope that encompasses multiple concepts or interpretations. It enables us to view different aspects or nuances of a particular subject by looking through the "telescope" of this word. This concept highlights the inherent flexibility and complexity of language, allowing for a single term to capture diverse phenomena, categories, or ideas.
The flexibility of telescope words allows for the inclusion of multiple subcategories or meanings, providing a more efficient and concise way to communicate complex concepts. The telescopic nature of these words allows for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter by exploring distinct dimensions within a term's broader framework.
As language continues to evolve, telescope words become increasingly valuable in enabling efficient communication and understanding. These words serve as powerful tools to explore and analyze multifaceted topics, facilitating effective communication and comprehension across various fields of study or discourse.
The term "telescope word" is a linguistic expression coined by psychologist and linguist Steven Pinker in his book "The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature" published in 2007. It is not derived from any specific etymological root as it is a metaphorical term used in the context of language and cognition.
In the book, Pinker uses this term to describe words that have a broader scope or meaning than their constituent parts might suggest. Just like a telescope can make distant objects appear closer and larger, a telescope word can encompass a wide range of related concepts. For example, the word "vehicle" includes cars, buses, ships, and planes. The term "telescope word" highlights how language can use single words to represent or "telescope" a larger set of related concepts.
