Word Finder
What's the word for a word made by combining parts of two other words?
The word you're looking for
A portmanteau is a new word made by joining parts of two other words. It fits your clue exactly, like "smog" from smoke and fog.
Other words that fit
Use this for a simpler, more general term. It is common in linguistics, but less specific than portmanteau.
Use this when two whole words are joined, like "toothbrush" or "notebook." It is different from a portmanteau.
Use this when you mean a newly created word in general. It is broader and does not always mean two words were combined.
Why this word
A portmanteau is a word formed by mixing parts of two other words. English uses this pattern a lot in names, brands, and everyday speech. People sometimes confuse it with a compound word, but a compound usually joins full words, not pieces. The word is common in language study and in examples like "brunch" and "motel."
In context
- "Brunch" is a portmanteau of breakfast and lunch.
- "Smog" is a famous portmanteau.
- Many brand names are portmanteaus.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is a portmanteau the same as a compound word?
- No. A compound word joins whole words, but a portmanteau joins parts of words.
- What is a simple example of a portmanteau?
- "Brunch" is a simple example. It comes from breakfast and lunch.
- Can a portmanteau be a brand name?
- Yes. Many brand names and product names use portmanteau-style word creation.