topolect

Meaning

Noun

The speech form, variety (lect) of a particular place or region.
A regional variety of Chinese; especially a lect other than Standard Mandarin.

Origin

Combination of topo- + -lect. Attested since the 1960s, but rare until its introduction by sinologist Victor Mair in 1991 to distinguish Chinese 方言 from English dialect.

Modern English dictionary

Explore and search massive catalog of over 900,000 word meanings.

Word of the Day

Get a curated memorable word every day.

Challenge yourself

Level up your vocabulary by setting personal goals.

And much more

Try out Vedaist now.