| 释义 |
initialism|ɪnˈɪʃəlɪzm|
[f. initial n. + -ism.]
The use of initials; a significative group of initial letters. Now spec. a group of initial letters used as an abbreviation for a name or expression, each letter or part being pronounced separately (contrasted with acronym).
1899R. Thomas in N. & Q. 9th Ser. III. 103/1 In my ‘Handbook’ I give an initialism of Mr. Watts's, ‘P. P. C. R.’ 1928[see pseudandry s.v. pseudo- 2 a]. 1965(title) Acronyms and initialisms dictionary (Gale Research Company). 1975Globe & Mail (Toronto) 22 May 10/4 Americanization has also largely done away with periods in acronyms and initialisms. 1979Amer. Speech 1976 Ll. 77 KSSU (an initialism of initialisms: KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines), SAS (Scandinavian Airlines System), Swissair, and UTA (Union de Transports Aeriens)). 1981Maledicta V. 95 The acronym..and its cousin, the initialism..are perhaps the newest devices for forming nicknames for ethnic groups. 1984Word Ways XVII. i. 48 The work consulted by Wolpow distinguishes abbreviations and initialisms. |