portmanteau
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //pɔːrtˈmæn.təʊ//
KK: /pɔrtˈmænˌtoʊ/
adjective
Definition
A word that combines the sounds and meanings of two different words, or something that has multiple uses or qualities.
Example
The term 'brunch' is a portmanteau of breakfast and lunch.
Conversation
Have you heard about that new movie?
No, what's it about?
It's a portmanteau of different genres, blending comedy and horror.
That sounds interesting! I love when movies mix styles.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
composite
hybrid
blended
Antonyms
simple
single
pure
noun
Definition
A large suitcase that can be opened into two parts, or a word formed by combining parts of two or more words.
Example
She packed her clothes into a portmanteau for the trip.
Conversation
Have you ever heard the word portmanteau?
Yeah, isn't it a blend of two words like 'brunch'?
Exactly! I think it's such a fun way to create new terms.
Root Explanation
Portmanteau → It is formed from "porter" (from Old French, meaning to carry) and "manteau" (meaning coat). The word originally referred to a suitcase that could carry multiple items, and it has since evolved to describe a word that blends the sounds and meanings of two words.
Memory Tip
Think of a suitcase that 'carries' ('porter') different items, just like a portmanteau word carries meanings from two different words.
Visually Confused Words
unportmanteaued
pockmanteau