Greekism

/ˈɡriːkɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A Greek phrase, idiom, or linguistic element used in another language; Greek character or style (often in scholarship).

Etymology

From 'Greek' combined with the suffix '-ism' (denoting a doctrine, practice, or characteristic style), following patterns like Latinism and barbarism.

Kelly Says

Scholars use 'Greekism' when Greek words or concepts sneak into other languages—Latin inherited Greek philosophy terms, English borrowed 'democracy' and 'analysis'—showing how language contact spreads ideas.

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