Idiom
/ˈɪd.i.əm/noun
A phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the literal meaning of its individual words.
Did you know?The word 'idiom' is linked to the ancient notion of personal expression, reflecting the unique cultural identity of its speakers, like a spell only understood by its caster.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἰδίωμα
“A peculiar phrase or expression, specific to a certain context.”
Late Latin
Latin
idioma
“A form of speech or peculiar manner of speaking.”
Old French
Old French
idiome
“A dialect or language peculiar to a group.”
Middle English
Middle English
idiom
“A distinctive style of expression in language.”
Modern English
English
idiom
“A phrase with a figurative meaning distinct from its literal meaning.”
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