lexicology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Academic / Technical
Quick answer
What does “lexicology” mean?
The branch of linguistics that studies the vocabulary of a language, including the origins, meanings, and relationships of words.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The branch of linguistics that studies the vocabulary of a language, including the origins, meanings, and relationships of words.
The systematic study of the lexicon, encompassing word formation, etymology, semantic change, and the structure of the vocabulary system within a language or across languages.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The term is used identically in academic linguistics in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral, technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both BrE and AmE, confined to linguistic discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “lexicology” in a Sentence
[Subject] + studies/explores/investigates + lexicologyLexicology + deals with/concerns + [Object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lexicology” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- A lexicological approach was taken to analyse the semantic shift.
American English
- The paper's lexicological framework was particularly robust.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core term in linguistics departments and publications.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would only be used when discussing linguistics explicitly.
Technical
Standard term in linguistic textbooks, research papers, and conferences.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lexicology”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lexicology”
- Confusing it with 'lexicography' (dictionary-making).
- Using it to refer to general vocabulary learning instead of the academic discipline.
- Misspelling as 'lexicolgy' or 'lexicollogy'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Lexicology is the theoretical study of vocabulary, its structure, and meaning. Lexicography is the practical craft of compiling, writing, and editing dictionaries.
No. Learning new words is vocabulary acquisition. Lexicology is the academic, scientific study of how words function within a language's system.
Key branches include historical lexicology (word origins and change), descriptive lexicology (current vocabulary structure), and contrastive lexicology (comparing vocabularies of different languages).
Generally, no. For most learners, focused vocabulary study, reading, and usage are more effective. Lexicology is relevant for linguists, translators, and advanced language teachers.
The branch of linguistics that studies the vocabulary of a language, including the origins, meanings, and relationships of words.
Lexicology is usually academic / technical in register.
Lexicology: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlek.sɪˈkɒl.ə.dʒi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌlek.sɪˈkɑː.lə.dʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'LEXIcon' (dictionary) + 'OLOGY' (study of) = the study of words and vocabulary.
Conceptual Metaphor
VOCABULARY IS A NETWORK (lexicology maps the connections between words).
Practice
Quiz
Which field is most closely related to, but distinct from, lexicology?