The word, “brunch,” is the result of combining two words into one – breakfast and lunch. These word combinations are called “portmanteau” words or “blended” words. I just like to say portmanteau, so I’m going with that one.
Here are some more examples of portmanteau words, taken from “English Language and Usage” on Stack Exchange:
- Smog = smoke + fog
- Guesstimate = guess + estimate
- Chillax = chill + relax
- Wurly = hair that is both wavy and curly (I’ve never heard of that one)
I thought of this topic because a subscriber told me this story:
She asked her friend what he was doing for his birthday. He said he was going to (what sounded like) London. Wow! she replied. That’s quite a celebration!
He laughed and explained he had said “Lundin,” meaning the combination of Lunch and Dinner. HAH! A big difference!
I always referred to those meals as “Linners.” I kind of like the Lundin (a/k/a London) reference, though.
What word combinations have you heard?
Ha! LunDin. I’ve always been a linnner girl. Lundin it is! Another fun one Barbara!
You use Linner, too? I knew we had a lot in common! Sorry 😉
Since I am a Dr Who fan, my kids bought me my own Sonic Spork one year as a present.
A Spork! Spoon and fork, yes? I love it. And I always thought it was my weird brain that made me say spork and foon . . . Now I know I can blame it on Dr. Who! 😄
I want to see this Sonic Spork – do you still have it???
Not only do I still have it, it is still brand new in the box. I’ll take a picture of it and send it to you. 🙂
Bromance
Of course! That word has definitely become part of our lingo. Thanks!
My favorite is this, because it describes my frequent state of being: hangry.
That’s a great one! I completely forgot about that ‘word’! That’s how I describe my cats!! (but not you, LB 😉)