Englishism

/ˈɪŋɡlɪʃɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A characteristic expression, custom, belief, or behavior typical of English people, or an English idiom or word used in another language.

Etymology

From English + -ism (Greek -ismos, expressing practice or doctrine). The -ism suffix became productive in English by the 16th century for naming distinctive features of cultures, languages, or groups.

Kelly Says

Just as we say 'Gallicism' for French phrases and 'Americanism' for American traits, 'Englishism' captures what makes English culture distinct. It's less common today, but it shows how language itself tracks the rise and fall of cultural influence.

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