basilect

Definition

A variety of a language that differs substantially from the standard form, and is only considered suitable for very informal contexts by speakers.

Etymology

From basi- (“base, bottom”) + -lect (“speech”).

Example Sentences

• "The highest level of good English has been called the acrolect; the lowest level of poor speech, the basilect; both are contrasted with the matrilect, the general native language."
• "In both regions English is used extensively, the spoken form ranging from, in the language of linguisticians, the basilect to the mesolect and the matrilect or acrolect (prestige English) ."
• "If only the basilect is a true creole, then the mesolect is relegated to limbo -- not a creole, certainly not a standard."

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