1. the process by which a word, phrase, or concept becomes established as a standard item in a language's vocabulary
Usage: linguistics; formal
2. the conversion of a grammatical structure or morpheme into a fixed lexical item with a specialized meaning
Usage: linguistics; technical

Examples

• The lexicalization of 'selfie' occurred rapidly after smartphones became widespread.
• Linguists study the lexicalization of new terms to understand how languages evolve.
• The phrase 'by and large' underwent lexicalization and is now treated as a single idiomatic unit.
• Internet culture has accelerated the lexicalization of words like 'emoji' and 'hashtag'.
• The lexicalization of compound words shows how language adapts to new concepts.
• Researchers examine lexicalization to track social and technological changes reflected in vocabulary.