Portmanteau word facts for kids
A portmanteau word is a special kind of word. It's made by blending two (or more) other words, or parts of them, into one new word. Think of it like mixing two ingredients to make something new! For example, the word motel comes from combining motor and hotel.
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What is a Portmanteau Word?
These words are often created to describe something new that combines features of the original words. They help us create short, catchy names for new ideas or things.
Where the Word "Portmanteau" Comes From
The word portmanteau itself has an interesting history! It originally meant a type of suitcase that opened into two separate parts. This was perfect for carrying different clothes or items.
The idea of a "word combination" using portmanteau was first used by Lewis Carroll in his famous book Through the Looking-Glass. In the story, a character named Humpty Dumpty explains some of the unusual words in the poem Jabberwocky. He says these words are like two words "packed together" into one, just like the two parts of a portmanteau suitcase are packed together.
Cool Examples of Portmanteau Words
Many words we use every day are portmanteaus!
- The word portmanteau itself is an example! It combines the French words "porter" (which means to carry) and "manteau" (which means coat). So, it literally means a "coat carrier."
- Wikipedia is another great example. It blends "wiki" (a Hawaiian word meaning "fast") and "encyclopedia."
- Smog comes from smoke and fog.
- Brunch is a mix of breakfast and lunch.
- Spork (like the one in the picture) combines spoon and fork.
These words show how language can be creative and combine ideas in new ways!
Images for kids
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This old cartoon from 1812 shows the original Gerrymander. This word is a portmanteau of Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry's name and the word salamander. It describes changing voting district shapes to help one political group.
