The Australian English lexicon

Wherever English travels in the world, it takes on the local characteristics of the environment and its people and their experiences. The Australian lexicon arguably provides an exemplary case of these processes. This entry unpacks contemporary attitudes to the Australian lexicon, and then outlines its evolution. The evolution of the Australian lexicon – and its ensuing social meanings – can be traced to key points in the young nation's history. This discussion is framed through Schneider's Dynamic Model for Englishes outside of Britain, especially as this model relates to Australian English. Australians are proud and protective of their lexicon. The lexicon reflects an evolving relationship with the new continent, the old world and the wider global lexicon which Australia both draws from and contributes to.