Linguistic diffusion is the spread and adoption of language features (such as vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation) from one region or group to another. It can occur through migration, conquests, colonization, or technological advancements.
Related terms
Pidgin Language: Pidgin language is a simplified form of communication that arises between groups who do not share a common language. It combines elements from multiple languages for basic understanding.
Creole Language: Creole language develops when two or more languages merge over time into a stable system used as the primary means of communication within a community.
Dialect: A dialect refers to variations in speech patterns (vocabulary, pronunciation) within a language, often influenced by regional or social factors.