Meaning & Definition of word "Acronym"

Acronym

/ˈækrəˌnɪm/

1. A word formed from the initial letters of a phrase, typically consisting of the initial letters of each word.
- Example: NASA is an acronym for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
2. An abbreviation formed from the initial components in a phrase or a word.
- Example: The term 'scuba' is an acronym for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus.
3. A type of abbreviation that is pronounced as a single word.
- Example: UNICEF is an acronym that stands for the United Nations Children's Fund.
4. An abbreviation consisting of the initial letters of each word in a phrase, often used for ease of communication.
- Example: The acronym FAQ stands for Frequently Asked Questions.
5. A shorthand way to refer to a complex term or phrase by using key letters.
- Example: The acronym ASAP means 'as soon as possible'.

●Coined in the 1940s from 'acro-' meaning 'top' or 'tip' and '-onym' meaning 'name'.

PIN number:

Personal Identification Number, often redundantly repeated as 'number'.

ATM machine:

Automated Teller Machine, where 'machine' is redundant.

NASA program:

Refers generally to initiatives undertaken by NASA.

initialism:

An abbreviation consisting of the initial letters of words, pronounced letter by letter.

abbreviation:

A shortened form of a word or phrase.

term:

A word or expression used in a specific context.

Meaning: Hip way to refer to something long

● Example Sentence: Just call it the 'W.I.F.E.' and everyone will know what you mean.

Meaning: Casual shorthand in tech

● Example Sentence: The IT team loves their acronyms like 'API' and 'SaaS'.