What is a neologism?

A neologism is defined as a newly coined word or expression that has been created to convey a particular idea, often in response to cultural or technological changes. Neologisms can emerge from various sources, including technology, social media, and popular culture, as they reflect the evolving nature of language and communication. This term specifically highlights the innovative aspect of language: how it grows and adapts over time to meet new needs.

In the context of this question, the definition provided by the correct answer emphasizes the act of creating or introducing new terms into everyday language, which is the fundamental characteristic of neologisms. The other options do not accurately capture this concept; for example, words that have fallen out of use, have historical significance, or are simply common phrases do not represent the novelty or the dynamic aspect inherent in neologisms. Thus, the correct answer aligns perfectly with the concept of a neologism as it focuses solely on the newness of the term.