Echolalia
/ˌɛ.kəʊˈleɪ.li.ə/noun
The unsolicited repetition of vocalizations made by another person.
Did you know?In ancient times, the repetition of sounds was believed to invoke spirits, creating a link between the speaker and the supernatural realm.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἠχώ (ēkhō)
“Sound or noise, embodying the essence of reverberation.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
λαλία (lalía)
“Speech or chatter, often associated with the act of talking.”
19th Century
English
echolalia
“The term was coined to describe the phenomenon of repeating phrases, especially in children or those with developmental disorders.”
Modern English
English
echolalia
“Retains its definition from its introduction, emphasizing the psychological and communicative aspects.”