Definition:
An “archaic word” is a word that was once commonly used in a particular language but has since fallen out of everyday use.
A “neologism” is a newly coined word, expression, or usage in a language. It can refer to entirely new words or new meanings for existing words.
Etymology:
The term “archaic” comes from the Greek word “archaikos,” meaning “ancient” or “old-fashioned,” derived from “archaios,” which means “from the beginning” or “ancient.” The word “archaic” has been used in English since the 17th century.
The term “neologism” comes from the Greek words “neo,” meaning “new,” and “logos,” meaning “word.” It has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe newly invented words or expressions.
Description:
Archaic words are no longer in common usage but may still be recognized by people familiar with older literary works and may be preserved in certain contexts, such as poetry, religious texts, or historical documents. These words often reflect the linguistic characteristics of the time periods in which they were used. In literature and poetry archaic words can still be used to evoke a certain time period or to create a specific mood. Legal and historical documents may use archaic terms that were standard at the time of writing.
Examples of Archaic Words:
- Thou: An old singular form of “you.”
- Hath: An old form of “has.”
- Betwixt: Meaning “between.”
- Perchance: Meaning “perhaps.”
- Quoth: Meaning “said.”
Neologisms are introduced into a language through various means such as popular culture, technological advances, and social changes. They can become part of everyday language or remain within specific subcultures.
Examples of Neologisms:
- “Blog” (from “web log”).
- “CRISPR” (a gene-editing technology).
- “Dark matter” (a type of matter hypothesized in astrophysics).
- “Fake news” (false information presented as news).
- “FOMO” (fear of missing out).
- “Hashtag” (a word or phrase preceded by a hash symbol # on social media).
- “Microaggression” (subtle, often unintentional discrimination).
- “Selfie” (a self-taken photograph, usually with a smartphone).
- “Staycation” (a vacation spent at home or nearby).
Religion:
Many older translations of religious texts, like the King James Bible, contain archaic language.
While the original Arabic text of the Quran is not considered archaic by speakers of classical Arabic, early English translations may use archaic words.
The Book of Mormon, written in the 19th century, used archaic words from the 16th century to create an effect of authenticity, though it has the opposite effect on people who are not gullible.
Neologisms are typically not found in ancient religious texts, as these works were written long before the modern phenomena that inspire new words. However, contemporary religious discourse and translations may introduce neologisms to describe modern concepts within a religious context.
Neologisms like “televangelist” (a television-based preacher) reflect the intersection of religion and modern technology.