holophrase

American  

[hol-uh-freyz, hoh-luh-] / ˈhɒl əˌfreɪz, ˈhoʊ lə- /

noun

1. a word functioning as a phrase or sentence, as the imperative Go!

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Etymology

Origin of holophrase

First recorded in 1895–1900; holo- + phrase

Explanation

A holophrase is a single word that expresses a complex idea or a full sentence. When a toddler looks at you, raises her arms, and says "Up!" she's using a holophrase. Holophrases are most often associated with toddlers who are just learning to speak. Because young children have limited vocabularies, a single word must do the work of a full sentence. Depending on the context, "Up!" could mean "Pick me up, please," or it could mean, "Uh-oh! The dog just jumped up on the couch!" By observing a child's tone and gestures, we can decode these one-word messages. Adults use holophrases, too: "Go!" "Okay." "Thanks." "Fire!" A holophrase packs a lot of meaning into one word.

Example Sentences

Possibly he does not differentiate sufficiently between the rude language of the holophrase and the much later growth of formed and grammatical speech.

From Pagan and Christian creeds: their origin and meaning by Carpenter, Edward