Haplolaly

/ˌhæpləˈleɪli/ noun

Definition

In linguistics, a form of language change where a distinction between two phonemes or linguistic units is lost, simplifying the sound system.

Etymology

From Greek haplos (single) + lalia (speech or utterance). A linguistics term describing simplification processes in how languages evolve over time.

Kelly Says

Languages naturally simplify over time through processes like haplolaly, where speakers stop distinguishing between similar sounds—this is why Latin's complex case system slowly disappeared into Romance languages!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.