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noun

hypocorism

Hypocorism (noun) means a term of endearment, often a diminutive; a pet name.

noun
1
A term of endearment, often a diminutive; a pet name.
2
The formation of terms of endearment or pet names.
3
Baby talk, such as bow-wow for dog and choo-choo for train.
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Etymology

Borrowed from Late Latin hypocorisma, a loan from Ancient Greek ὑποκόρισμα (hupokórisma), ὑποκορισμός (hupokorismós, “pet name”), from ὑποκορίζεσθαι (hupokorízesthai), ὑποκορίζομαι (hupokorízomai, “to use a pet name; to act in a childish manner”), from ῠ̔πο- (hŭpo-, prefix indicating a small degree) + κορίζομαι (korízomai, “to caress”) (from κόρος (kóros, “boy; youth”), κόρη (kórē, “girl; young woman”)).

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of hypocorism?

"hypocorism" (noun) means a term of endearment, often a diminutive; a pet name.

What are the different meanings of hypocorism?

"hypocorism" has 3 main meanings: 1. A term of endearment, often a diminutive; a pet name; 2. The formation of terms of endearment or pet names; 3. Baby talk, such as bow-wow for dog and choo-choo for train.

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