Reduplicate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'reduplicare,' meaning 'to double again', where 're-' means 'again' and 'duplicare' means 'to fold or double'.
• It entered the English language in the 17th century, initially used in linguistic contexts to describe certain kinds of word formation.

Linguistics

• In language, reduplication often occurs in various forms, such as repeating a sound or syllable for emphasis, like 'goody-goody'.
• Some languages, like Tagalog in the Philippines, use reduplication to indicate grammatical aspects like tense or plurality.

Psychology

• Repetition, similar to reduplication, can enhance memory retention, illustrating how our brains benefit from having information repeated.
• In therapeutic settings, reduplication of certain phrases or affirmations can help in building self-confidence by reinforcing positive thoughts.

Pop Culture

• In children's songs, repeated phrases (like in 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat') create a catchy rhythm that aids in memorization and engagement.
• Reduplicated words have also made their way into slang, such as 'super-duper,' to create an exaggerated form of expression.

Mathematics

• In math, the concept of duplication is integral in operations like multiplication, where a number is added repeatedly.
• Reduplicate processes are used in algorithms to optimize certain calculations by reapplying previous results.