blend

linguistics

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

In linguistics, a blend is a word formed by combining parts of two or more other words. A common example is "brunch," created from "breakfast" and "lunch". This process is also referred to as creating a "portmanteau" word.12

Blends are a way new words are formed in English, with many becoming popular in the 20th century, such as "motel" (motor and hotel). While some blends are serious, like "alkyd," most are created with a playful intent and have a clear meaning.2

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English language
Back-formations, blends, and other types of word-formation
Blends fall into two groups: (1) coalescences, such as bash from bang and smash; and (2) telescoped forms, called portmanteau words, such as motorcade from motor cavalcade. In the first group are the words clash, from clack and crash, and liger, offspring of lion and…
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Blends fall into two groups: (1) coalescences, such as bash from bang and smash; and (2) telescoped forms, called portmanteau words, such as motorcade from motor cavalcade. In the first group are the words clash, from clack and crash, and liger, offspring of lion and…
Read More