Definition & Meaning of "pidgin"

What is a "pidgin"?

A pidgin is a simplified language that develops as a means of communication between people who do not share a common language. It typically arises in situations such as trade, where speakers of different languages need to communicate for practical purposes. Pidgins have limited vocabulary and simplified grammar, making them easier to learn and use. They usually draw elements from the languages of the groups involved, creating a new, hybrid form of speech. While pidgins are not native languages, they can serve important functions in social and economic interactions.