lexicostatistics

[ lek-si-koh-stuh-tis-tiks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. the statistical study of the vocabulary of a language or languages for historical purposes.

lexicostatistics

/ ˌlɛksɪkəʊstəˈtɪstɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the statistical study of the vocabulary of a language, with special attention to the historical links with other languages See also glottochronology

Other Words From

• lexi·co·sta·tistic lexi·co·sta·tisti·cal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lexicostatistics¹

First recorded in 1955–60; lexic(on) + -o- + statistics