Definition & Meaning of "coinage"

What is "coinage"?

Coinage is the process of creating new words or terms that did not previously exist in a language. This can happen for various reasons, such as the need to name new inventions, ideas, or cultural phenomena. Coined words often arise from combining existing words, altering existing terms, or inventing entirely new sounds. For example, the term "googling" emerged from the name of the search engine "Google" and refers to searching for information online. Coinage often happens in response to cultural, technological, or social changes, allowing language to adapt and expand. New words created through coinage can quickly gain popularity and become part of everyday vocabulary, reflecting the dynamic nature of language.