Language and the Lexicon provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of lexicology, introducing the reader to the lexicon by exploring the lexical aspects of a range of different areas of language: syntax, morphology, semantics, phonology, language variation, language change, language acquisition and language processing. Assuming no prior knowledge of linguistics, the book introduces the key concepts, employing examples from a wide variety of languages." "This book is ideally suited to those approaching lexicology for the first time. With its wide scope and coverage of diverse topics, it can equally serve as a first introduction to linguistics.