Few writers have left as indelible a mark on the English language as William Shakespeare. Beyond the unforgettable characters and intricate plots, Shakespeare’s most enduring legacy might be the wealth of new words and phrases he introduced. His creativity in coining terms seemed boundless, earning him a reputation as one of the English language’s most prolific inventors of words.
The Context of Shakespeare’s Inventions
Before diving into the plethora of words Shakespeare coined, it’s crucial to understand the linguistic context of his era. The late 16th and early 17th centuries were times of immense linguistic change and expansion. The English Renaissance was a time of discovery, both geographically and intellectually, and the language needed to adapt to encapsulate these new ideas, concepts, and experiences. Shakespeare, with his keen ear and sharp wit, was right at the heart of this linguistic evolution.
The Process of Inventing
Shakespeare’s process of inventing words often involved:
- Affixation: Adding prefixes or suffixes to existing words. For example, the addition of the prefix “un-” to create “uncomfortable.”
- Compounding: Combining two existing words. For instance, “bedroom,” a room with a bed.
- Changing Parts of Speech: Using a noun as a verb or vice versa. “To elbow” someone out of the way makes use of this technique.
The Shakespearean Lexicon
Let’s delve into some of the words that owe their existence or at least their popularity, to the Bard:
- Assassination (Macbeth): One of the more dramatic inventions, it refers to the act of killing someone, usually a prominent figure.
- Bedazzled (The Taming of the Shrew): To impress to the point of daze or dazzle.
- Belongings (Measure for Measure): Personal possessions.
- Cold-blooded (King John): Without emotion or pity; deliberately cruel or callous.
- Fashionable (Troilus and Cressida): Popular or in style.
- Gloomy (Titus Andronicus): Dark or dim; deeply shaded.
- Lackluster (As You Like It): Lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; uninspired or uninspiring.
- Lonely (Coriolanus): Solitary, devoid of company.
- Unreal (Macbeth): Not real or genuine.
Phrases Too!
Shakespeare wasn’t just about coining individual words. Many phrases we use daily find their roots in his plays:
- “All’s well that ends well” (All’s Well That Ends Well): Meaning a risky endeavor is justified so long as it turns out well in the end.
- “Break the ice” (The Taming of the Shrew): To start a conversation in a social setting.
- “Fair play” (The Tempest): In accordance with the rules or standards; legitimate.
- “Good riddance” (Troilus and Cressida): Relief at being free of an unwelcome person or thing.
- “Wild goose chase” (Romeo and Juliet): A futile search or pursuit.
Linguistic Impact
The words and phrases Shakespeare invented are so deeply entrenched in English that many speakers use them without realizing their origin. His plays, read and performed globally, became a conduit for these words to seep into various cultures, solidifying their place in the English lexicon.
Modern Relevance
Today, as language continues to evolve with technology and culture, Shakespeare’s legacy stands as a testament to the adaptability and expansiveness of English. He reminds us that language is malleable, and words are tools that can be crafted and molded to fit our needs.
Conclusion
Shakespeare’s genius was not confined to his intricate plots or memorable characters. It permeated his very use of language, the way he played with words, and how he molded them. His ability to capture the essence of human experience in new words and phrases is unparalleled, making him a true master of linguistic invention. So the next time you speak of a “foregone conclusion” or find something “sanctimonious,” remember the Bard and his incredible influence on the way we express ourselves.
