Definition of isogloss in English:
isogloss
noun ˈʌɪsə(ʊ)ɡlɒsˈaɪsəˌɡlɑs
Linguistics A line on a map marking an area having a distinct linguistic feature.
Example sentencesExamples
- The following map, for example, shows several isoglosses for different grammatical features of Anishinaabemowin.
- However, the conclusion maps used in the research are not synthetic but they are drawn up using isoglosses to present the findings.
- Although isoglosses are displayed as lines, they are actually transition areas where pronunciation gradually changes.
- Such boundaries are called isoglosses and are themselves subjected to various shades of definition.
- All words belonging to the same isogloss must have sound correspondences and clear similarities in form and meaning.
Origin
Early 20th century: from iso- 'equal' + Greek glōssa 'tongue, word'.