Background of the Study
Viral hashtags on Twitter have become catalysts for linguistic innovation, particularly in the creation of new morphological forms in Nigerian digital discourse. These hashtags often encapsulate social movements, cultural trends, and collective identities, leading users to coin neologisms that blend indigenous vocabulary with global slang. The morphological adaptations observed include creative affixation, blending, and abbreviation. This study examines the impact of viral hashtags on Nigerian morphology by analyzing a corpus of Twitter neologisms. It explores how digital affordances—such as character limits and rapid content dissemination—stimulate innovative word formation, thereby challenging traditional language norms. By situating these phenomena within morphological theory and digital semiotics, the research provides insights into how online activism and social media trends drive morphological change (Adeniyi, 2023; Okoro, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Although viral hashtags are recognized as a driving force for morphological innovation in Nigerian digital discourse, there is limited empirical research on their specific impact. Existing studies tend to focus on lexical innovation without systematically examining the morphological processes behind neologism formation. This gap limits our understanding of how digital practices influence word formation and the evolution of language. The current study aims to address this deficiency by analyzing the morphological features of neologisms emerging from viral Twitter hashtags, thereby elucidating the relationship between digital activism and morphological change (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
To analyze morphological features of neologisms from viral hashtags.
To assess the role of digital affordances in word formation.
To identify socio‑cultural factors driving morphological innovation.
Research Questions:
What new morphological forms are produced by viral hashtags?
How do digital constraints influence word formation?
What cultural factors contribute to these morphological changes?
Significance of the Study
This study enhances our understanding of digital language evolution by examining how viral hashtags drive morphological innovation in Nigeria. Its insights are valuable for linguists and media scholars interested in the interplay between online activism and language change (Adeniyi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to Nigerian Twitter neologisms.
Definitions of Terms:
Viral Hashtags: Popular hashtags that rapidly spread on social media.
Morphology: The study of word formation and structure.
Neologisms: Newly coined words or expressions.
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