Explanation
Listeners segment a sequence of sounds differently than earlier speakers did. New word forms and meanings can arise from this new segmentation.
Example
In English, “an ewt” became “a newt” through rebracketing.
Counterexample
A mere sound change without the establishment of new boundaries is not rebracketing.
Distinction
Distinguish from metathesis and ordinary borrowing.
Effect on thought and perception
Demonstrates how the perception of word boundaries actively shapes the history of vocabulary.
Resonance
An incorrectly or newly perceived intervening element becomes a stable form for future generations.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Rebracketing“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-103-023. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-103-023The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.