# lexical

/ˈɫɛksɪkəɫ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lexical
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

relating to the words of a language and how they are used. It describes the study of vocabulary and the meaning of individual words.

For teachers: relating to the vocabulary of a language or the study of words and their meanings. Often used in the context of linguistics or to describe the specific set of words used in a particular field.

## Examples

- The two languages have a very similar lexical structure.
- The researcher is studying the lexical differences between the dialects spoken in the north and south of the country.
- While the grammar of the two languages is vastly different, their lexical roots often overlap, suggesting a shared history of cultural exchange and linguistic influence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.