deixis

noun

deix·​is ˈdīk-sis How to pronounce deixis (audio)
 also  ˈdāk-
plural deixes ˈdīk-ˌsēz How to pronounce deixis (audio)
 also  ˈdāk-
: the pointing or specifying function of some words (such as definite articles and demonstrative pronouns) whose denotation changes from one discourse to another

Word History

Etymology

Greek, literally, display, from deiknynai to show — more at diction

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deixis was in 1946

Dictionary Entries Near deixis

Cite this Entry

“Deixis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deixis. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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