1. Introduction

Globalization and the rapid development of technology have not only impacted economics and politics but also strongly influenced languages. English, as a dominant language in global communication and economic activities, has been remarkable developments in its lexicon and semantics owing to the technological revolution. Lexical-semantic variations refer to the changes in the meaning, use, and contextual roles of words. These changes are often driven by the introduction of new technologies, innovations, and the global exchange of ideas. As the world becomes more interconnected, language naturally adapts to reflect the evolving nature of human experiences. Comprehending these changes provides insights into how language evolves in response to shifts in society and technology. The study of lexical-semantic changes helps us appreciate the fluidity of language and its role in bridging cultural divides. Words that once had limited or localized meanings are now being used on a global scale, which underscores the influence of globalization on linguistic development.

The spread of globalization and technological innovations and advancements have led to the emergence of new words and phrases, which consider new social and cultural phenomena. As the internet and social media platforms increase, they create new conceps for communication, by that means giving rise to new terminology. For instance, terms like “viral”, “cloud computing”, and “hashtag” have become ubiquitous in global discourse. These words were once technical terms but have since become part of everyday language.

The use of words wich are related to tech, marketing and social networking has brought  a prolifeeration of special language. For example, words like “streaming,” “selfie,” and “emoji” are now widely recognized around the world. These words are not only descriptive but also convey specific cultural and technological derivations. The integration of language into everyday life and the growing role of digital platforms in shaping modern communication are just two examples of how technology advancements have been highlighted by such changes. These words are not only descriptive but also convey specific cultural and technological derivations.

New terms in English have been created due to these changes, which have often spread globally and have influenced other languages as well. The rapid growth of English as a global lingua franca results in the filtration of new English terms into other languages. In many cases, these terms retain their original meanings but adapt slightly to fit the context of different cultures. For instance, the term “selfie”, which originated in English, is now commonly used in various languages, albeit with slight variations in pronunciation or usage.

Furtheremore, English has become a global language for science, business, and entertainment, leading to further lexical-semantic innovations. This phenomenon is particularly evident in emerging fields like technology, where new terms are permenantly coined to define groundbreaking improvs. Words related to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain, such as “algorithm”, “bot”, and “cryptocurrency” have become part of common vocabulary, even for those with no technical background.

The lexical-semantic changes in English foster the language by introducing new meanings and creating broader connections across cultures. These new words provide speakers with more precise tools for describing their experiences in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, they allow for the expression of new concepts and ideas that may not have had linguistic representation before. The adoption of these new terms signifies the way language constantly adapts to the needs and authenties of its speakers.

As a result, English continues to evolve, incorporating influences from different languages, cultures, and technological fields. These ongoing lexical-semantic shifts emphasize the dynamic nature of language and its capacity to mirror global developments. New words and phrases often reflect shared human experiences and technological advancements, reinforcing the idea that language is a living entity that changes with time.

Furthermore, the globalization of English has led to the emergence of new varieties of English, each with its own unique vocabulary and expressions. This phenomenon, known as “world Englishes” highlights how English has been adapted and enriched by different areas, customs and traditions. As globalization continues, it is likely that English will continue to absorb words from other languages, further expanding its lexicon (Stockwell, 2001).

 The evolution of English due to globalization and technological advancements is a testament to the fluidity and adaptability of language. As new ideas, technologies, and cultural phenomena emerge, English will continue to develop, creating new words and meanings that reflect the ever-changing landscape of human society. Understanding language evolution and global communication and cultural exchange requires the study of these lexical-semantic changes.

2. Methods

The lexical-semantic changes in English can be analyzed using linguistic and semantic theories. The study of lexical-semantic shifts necessitates a comprehension of how language develops over time in response to societal, cultural, and technological advances. By using diverse methodological tools, this research highlits to capture how meaning and word usage change within the context of global and technological impacts.

The initial methodological approach involves conducting corpus analysis and examining linguistic context. Corpus analysis includes the use of large collections of written or spoken texts to analyze how words are used across different contexts (Biber, 1998). The identification of trends in language usage over time can be achieved by using corpora that include literary works, news articles, social media posts, and academic journals. Corpus analysis is an effective tool for identifying the frequency of newly emerging terms, tracking the shifts in their meaning, and mapping their semantic evolution.

One of the key benefits of corpus analysis is the ability to observe the natural use of language in real-life contexts. By reserching how words like “selfie,” “streaming,” and “hashtag” are used in different forms of discourse, researchers can identify changes in both their meanings and the contexts in which they appear. As a example, a word that initially appeared in a specific field, such as technology, might expand its usage into everyday language as it becomes more prevalent in common culture and social media. This shift demonstrates how the meaning of a word can change to meet the requirements of a wider range of speakers. Linguistic contextual analysis is used by researchers to analyze the linguistic features around the word, such as sentence structure, co-occurring words, and syntactic patterns, which provide more insight into the evolving meaning of the word. This form of analysis explains how the surrounding discourse shapes and influences the interpretation of the word. For example, a word like “cloud” which originally referred to a weather phenomenon, now carries a secondary meaning related to cloud computing. The context in which it is seen, whether in a technical discussion or casual conversation, influences its interpretation.

Additionally, semantic theories and sociolinguistic approaches are employed to understand the broader social, cultural, and technological factors behind these lexical-semantic variations. Semantic theories focus on how words get meaning, how those meanings shift, and how they are comprehended by speakers of a language. One crucial theory in this regard is semantic change, which explains how words may undergo shifts in meaning because of factors such as metaphorical extension, broadening, narrowing, or shift in connotation.

Polysemy, the phenomenon where a single word takes on several meanings, is another important concept within semantic theory. The word “streaming” for example, originally referred to the act of flowing water, but in the context of digital media, it now refers to the continuous transmission of data, especially in relation to video or audio. Understanding how polysemy operates in the context of technological terms is a key to analyzing lexical-semantic changes.

Sociolinguistics, the study of language in its social context, is also crucial for understanding these changes. Words like “selfie” and “hashtag” didn’t emerge in isolation; they were products of specific social practices, such as the rise of social media platforms, applications like Instagram and Twitter. Sociolinguistic analysis aims to examine how language usage reflects social identities, cultural norms, and power dynamics. These words, often used by younger generations or particular subcultures, can tell us a great deal about social trends and the cultural significance of technological advances.

A key concept in sociolinguistics is language changes, which examines how language differs across different social groups, regions, and contexts. For example, the widespread use of English terms in global communication has led to the spread of terms like “hashtag” which was originally used within online unities, but now has a broader social meaning, used even in offline contexts (Sytniak, 2021). The spread of these terms demonstrates the interconnectedness of global communication and how technology enables words to cross linguistic and cultural boundaries.

The study also includes comparative analysis, where the lexical units of the past and the present are examined to identify how meanings have evolved over time. Comparing older English terms with their current counterparts can reveal the historical development of specific words and phrases. In the early technological discourse, words like “cloud”, “web”, and “server” had one meaning, but since then, technology has evolved and has added additional meanings. By analyzing historical texts alongside modern examples, we can gain insight into how social changes – such as the proliferation of the internet or the rise of mobile communication – shaped the way language has adapted.

A diachronic approach is also employed, focusing on how words and phrases evolve over long periods of time. By utilizing this approach, it is possible to comprehend how social, technological, and cultural forces impact the meaning and usage of words in different periods. The verb “tweet”, previously only meant to refer to the sound a bird makes, has now become a synonym for “to post a message on Twitter”.Through the study of this term’s history throughout different time periods, it is possible to comprehend the intricate processes that lead to lexical and semantic change (Kassymova, 2024).

Moreover, the research integrates pragmatics, which examines the use of language in context. Pragmatics is concerned with how speakers use language in specific social situations to achieve certain goals. The use of words like “viral” in the context of internet culture can be understood pragmatically: the word implies that content spreads rapidly across the internet, which carries both a descriptive and prescriptive function in contemporary communication.

Through this combination of methods, researchers can accuire a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping language in the modern world. The integration of corpus analysis, semantic theory, sociolinguistics, and pragmatics allows for a detailed exploration of lexical-semantic changes, revealing not only how words have changed but why those changes have occurred. These methodologies demonstrate the dynamic nature of language, as it constantly adapts to new technological realities and social practices (Lytvyn, 2021)

By comparing different periods, analyzing shifts in meaning, and comprehending the social factors influencing language, researchers can map the trajectory of lexical-semantic changes in English. This provides valuable insights into how technology, culture, and social interaction shape the evolution of language. Ultimately, these methods allow for a richer understanding of how language reflects the changing landscape of global communication, providing a clear framework for studying linguistic change in the 21st century.

3. Results

Owing to globalization and technological development, significant lexical-semantic changes have occurred in the English language. The integration of digital culture, the growth of global communication platforms, and the constant innovation in technology all play a significant role in driving these changes. New words and phrases have emerged, older words have acquired additional meanings, and global interactions have altered the linguistic landscape (Fairclough N,2006). These changes are not isolated but represent deeper cultural and communicative shifts across societies.

3.1. Emergence of New Words and Phrases

The rapid growth of digital communication and technological innovation has led to the emergence of numerous new lexical items in English. These neologisms often arise to describe novel phenomena that previously had no linguistic representation. For example:

Fintech – a blend of “financial” and “technology,” this term refers to innovative financial services using modern digital tools. It reflects the evolution of banking and finance in a tech-driven global economy.

Metaverse – a concept describing a collective virtual space, often powered by augmented and virtual reality. This term gained traction with the expansion of immersive digital environments and social experiences.

Crowdfunding – a method of raising money through the internet by collecting small contributions from a large number of people. The term illustrates how technology has transformed traditional fundraising models.

Emoji – originally a Japanese term, it has been adopted into English to refer to digital pictograms used in messaging. Emojis reflect the blend of linguistic and visual communication in the digital age.

Cyberbullying – a term used to describe harassment that takes place therby digital platforms. The emergence of this term reflects a serious social issue tied directly to technological environments.

These new lexical items have been used into everyday language and are now commonly found in both informal and formal contexts. Their meanings are directly attached to technological functions and social behaviors, marking a fundamental shift in how we interact and communicate.

3.2. Semantic Expansion and Shifting Meanings

Alongside the creation of new words, many existing English words have undergone semantic shifts. These shifts reflect how familiar terms are repurposed or reinterpreted in response to technological advancements or global trends.

Ping – once solely a high-pitched sound or a radar signal, it is now commonly used to mean sending a brief message or notification in digital communication platforms.

Drone – traditionally referred to a male bee or monotonous sound, but now primarily denotes an unmanned aerial vehicle used in military, commercial, or recreational contexts.

Tablet – historically associated with a flat stone or pill, it now also refers to a portable touchscreen computing device. Its new meaning reflects changing consumer habits and mobile technology.

Such shifts in meaning demonstrate the flexibility and dynamism of the English lexicon. They also underscore how context determines interpretation and how societal needs reshape language over time.

3.3. Global and Local Language Changes

The spread of English words into other languages has become faster due to globalization and the ability to borrow terms across linguistic boundaries. English functions as a global lingua franca, and many terms originating in technological or cultural hubs are quickly adopted worldwide (Fairclough  N,2006).

Algorithm – originally a mathematical concept, it now commonly appears in discussions about social media, online advertising, and AI. Its use has expanded across languages and disciplines, shaping public discourse on digital ethics and behavior.

App – a short form of “application”, it is now universally understood to mean software programs on mobile devices. The term has been adopted into many languages with minimal modification, reflecting its global relevance.

Influencer – once referring broadly to someone with influence, it now specifically denotes individuals with a strong presence on social media platforms who shape trends, opinions, and consumer behavior.

Hackathon – a blend of “hack” and “marathon”, this term refers to an event where programmers collaboratively build software over a short period. It symbolizes the collaborative and innovative nature of the modern tech culture.

Gig – previously used for live musical performances, it is now also used to describe freelance or short-term jobs in the “gig economy.” This dual meaning reflects changing employment structures in a digital, globalized world.

These English terms are frequently translated into local languages, either by borrowing them directly or creating localized versions. The word “app” can be pronounced differently in various parts of the world, but its original meaning remains the same. Lexical borrowing, also known as global borrowing, reveals the fluid boundary between global and local linguistic systems.

In many cases, the adoption of English terminology into other languages leads to the hybridization of local lexicons. These borrowed words are sometimes modified morphologically or phonologically to fit the grammatical rules of the borrowing language. This adaptation process reflects how global culture interacts with local traditions and linguistic identities. Furthermore, these global vocabulary terms frequently acquire cultural connotations in diverse societies.While “influencer” may be associated with celebrity culture in one country, it can also be associated with activism or social movements in another country. This localization shows how global words can be recontextualized within specific socio-cultural frameworks.

Ultimately, the global widespread and local adaptation of these terms demonstrate the reciprocal relationship between language and culture. As English continues to serve as a transport for technological and cultural exchange, its vocabulary reflects both universal and context-specific meanings. These lexical-semantic changes illustrate the deepest impact of globalization on how we name, understand, and engage with the world around us.

4. Discussion

Globalization and technology have a significant impact on lexical-semantic changes, which is related to several interdependent factors. These include technological revolutions, cultural exchanges, and evolving social dynamics. All of these contribute to the creation, transformation, and dissemination of vocabulary in English and beyond.

4.1. Technological Influence on Lexis and Semantics

Technological revolutions–such as the rise of personal computing, the internet, mobile communication, and social media–have had a profound influence on the English language. New technologies constantly introduce novel concepts that require new linguistic expressions (Godwin-Jones R, 2018). Words like geotag, unfriend, and livestream exemplify how technological tools and behaviors generate previously nonexistent terms. Not only are these terms labels for tools, but they also define specific social practices associated with digital life. Additionally, technology accelerates language change by enabling real-time global communication. Platforms such as Twitter (X), TikTok, and Reddit provide spaces where neologisms are coined, tested, and spread rapidly across linguistic fields. In this digital environment, even obscure or playful terms can go mainstream within days. This significant difference from historical patterns of language evolution is marked by the unprecedented speed of diffusion.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are also influencing language use, not only by contributing terms like chatbot and deepfake, but by shaping how people interact with language technologies. For instance, interacting with voice assistants has changed the way people phrase questions, often making them more concise or keyword-oriented to improve machine comprehension.

4.2. Cultural Interaction and the Global Spread of English

Cultural interaction is another powerful factor in lexical-semantic change. English’s status as a global lingua franca in science, media, entertainment, and commerce has resulted in it absorbing and disseminating vocabulary from diverse cultural contexts. This event has led to the global recognition of terms like anime, karma, and sushi, which originated in other languages but are now widely used in English-speaking and non-English-speaking societies alike.

At the same time, English exports its new words into other languages, resulting in widespread lexical borrowing. App, stream, and startup are now commonly used in everyday speech in many global languages. This blending of vocabularies improvs a hybrid linguistic environment, where the boundaries between local and global language practices are increasingly fluid.

Furthermore, the adoption of English words often indicates alignment with global cultural tendencies. For example, using the word influencer in a non-English-speaking context often signals familiarity with digital culture and social media dynamics. Local identities are influenced by the global spread of terms that contribute to a shared cultural lexicon.

4.3. Social Dynamics and the Role of Generations

Social factors also significantly contribute to the evolution of vocabulary. Younger generations, in particular, are at the forefront of language innovation. Their participation in online communities enables them to freely experiment with language, which often leads to the creation of slang, abbreviations, or repurposed words that eventually become mainstream. Terms like ghosting, flex, or simp began in niche online communities and rapidly spread through youth culture to the wider public (Bauer, 2007).

Digital natives are also more comfortable blending written and visual forms of communication. The integration of emojis, GIFs, and hashtags into text illustrates the multimodal nature of modern language. These elements, while not traditional words, carry semantic meaning and contribute to how messages are interpreted.

Importantly, social media culture promotes language play and creativity. In terms of memes, they rely on shared cultural understanding and visual-verbal cues, and often create short-lived phrases that become part of internet folklore (Tagliamonte, 2016). Despite their ephemeral nature, these terms reveal a deeper level of linguistic creativity and the social bonding of digital communities.

4.4. Tensions Between Global and Local Identity

While globalization fosters a common linguistic ground, it also introduces tensions between global standardization and the preservation of regional and national identities. By creating local equivalents or regulating the use of borrowed vocabulary, some communities may be able to resist the influx of English terms (Alizada, 2021). For instance, language purity campaigns in France or Iceland aim to protect native lexicons from excessive English influence.

However, lexical-semantic developmentss can also empower local speakers by giving them tools to participate in global conversations. A speaker in Indonesia or Morocco using terms like podcast or e-commerce can engage with international audiences while still retaining their native language and cultural markers.

This dual movement – toward integration and preservation – demonstrates that language change is not one-dimensional. It reflects both a globalized worldview and local cultural resilience. Thus, new terms may describe both universal and localized meanings depending on the context in which they are used.

4.5. Language Change as a Multidimensional Process

It is essential to note that lexical-semantic change is not dictated by technology alone. It is shaped by cultural values, social interactions, identity formation, and even political ideologies. For example, the term woke originally related to social awareness, but its meaning has shifted and become politicized in different contexts, showing how semantics can evolve with societal discourse.

Language change is also influenced by economic trends. The rise of the gig economy, for instance, introduced terms like freelancer, side hustle, and digital nomad, which reflect broader shifts in labor and lifestyle. These terms encapsulate new economic realities and the values associated with them, such as flexibility, independence, and mobility.

Conclusion

The role of globalization impacts significantly on the semantic structure of English language. The number of words are related to technological advancements, cultural interactions and social developments. These developments in the world not only enrich English but also make it more adaptable to the globalized world. Additioanally, these shifts have an impact on other languages as well as, this phenomenon encourage their adaptation to the demands of global communication.