Chapter 7: Changes in Word Meaning

What is the primary cause of word meaning change?

• Grammar evolution shifts

• Cultural and societal shifts

• Phonetic decay

• Lack of usage shifts

Which of the following best defines semantic change?

• The process by which words gain or lose meanings over time

• The process by which words develop new spellings over time

• The adaptation of foreign words into a language

• The systematic deletion of words from a language

The word “closet” originally meant:

• A) A small storage space

• B) A place to sleep

• C) A private room

• D) A treasure chest

The fact that “table” in Shakespeare’s time meant “tablet” is an example of:

• Extension of meaning

• Restriction of meaning

• Metonymy

• Homonymy

Why do word meanings change over time?

• Due to cultural and technological advancements

• Because words lose their original spelling

• Because dictionaries redefine words annually

• Words have fixed meanings that do not change

The word “ship” has changed in meaning because:

• A) Ships have become larger over time

• B) It now includes spacecraft

• C) People misuse the word

• D) It no longer means “boat”

The word "car" originally referred to:

• A modern vehicle

• A two-wheeled chariot

• A steam engine

The meaning of the word “lamp” has changed because:

• It originally referred to a torch

• It was borrowed from another language

• It was originally spelled differently

• It lost its meaning

Which is not a reason for the change of word meanings?

• Historical and social changes

• Psychological influence

• Scientific discovery

• Permanent word stability

The word "king" originally referred to:

• Any ruler

• A warlord

• A political leader

• A priest