What can cause a word to undergo elevation in meaning?

A word can undergo elevation in meaning primarily due to cultural shifts and changes in societal attitudes. As societies evolve, the contexts and values associated with certain words can also change. For example, terms that once had negative connotations may be reclaimed and embraced within a culture, transforming into more positive or empowering terms. This process reflects a broader societal shift in perspective, highlighting the dynamic nature of language in response to evolving human experiences and ideologies.

In contrast, rigorous grammatical rules, while they govern how language is structured and used, do not directly affect the meaning or elevation of words. Similarly, inconsistent pronunciation might play a role in communication but does not influence the connotations or societal perceptions of a word. Historical usage can provide context and background for a term's journey and evolution, but it is the active cultural engagement with these words that primarily leads to elevation in meaning.