Vernacular

As a Noun

1. The everyday language spoken by ordinary people in a specific region or group, as opposed to formal or literary language.
2. A specialized vocabulary or way of speaking unique to a particular profession, group, or place.
3. In architecture, a style that reflects local traditions and materials.

As an Adjective

1. Relating to the native language of a region or group.
2. Commonly spoken or used rather than being formal or scholarly.
3. In architecture, referring to a style influenced by local culture and environment.

As Other Form

• Vernacularly (Adverb): In a manner relating to common or native speech.

Word History

The word vernacular comes from the Latin vernaculus, meaning “native or domestic,” originally used to describe locally spoken languages. Over time, it expanded to include regional dialects, informal speech, and even cultural expressions in fields like architecture.

Examples

1. He prefers writing in the vernacular rather than in formal academic language. (Noun – everyday language)
2. The medical vernacular can be confusing for patients. (Noun – specialized vocabulary)
3. The poet captured the beauty of the local vernacular. (Noun – regional dialect)
4. The novel was translated into vernacular English for wider accessibility. (Adjective – native language)
5. The house was built in a vernacular style using local materials. (Adjective – architectural style)

Synonyms

Dialect, colloquial language, slang, jargon, native tongue

Related Words

Lingo, idiom, common speech, regional language

Antonyms

Formal language, literary language, standard dialect