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Definition of bilingualism

bilingualism

/baɪˈlɪŋɡwəˌlɪzəm/
bi · lin · gual · ism
Adverb:bilingually
•
Adjective:bilingual
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bilingualism Lexical Profile

bilingualism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The ability of an individual to speak and understand two languages fluently, or the regular use of two languages within a community or nation.

Example

"Early childhood education programs increasingly emphasize the cognitive benefits of bilingualism."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for bilingualism

• Rhymes for bilingualism

• Nearby Words

bilge
bilimbi
bilingual
bilingualism
bilingually
bilk
bill

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from 'bilingual' plus the suffix '-ism', ultimately deriving from the Latin 'bilinguis' (speaking two languages), from 'bi-' (two) and 'lingua' (tongue or language).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bilingualism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bilingualism
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