semantic drift

Semantic drift refers to the gradual change in the meaning or connotation of a word or phrase over time. Language evolves as people use words in different contexts, leading to shifts in how terms are understood. For example, the word "girl" once primarily meant a young person of either sex, but now it specifically refers to a young female. This process can occur naturally, reflecting cultural, social, or technological changes, and can sometimes cause confusion if the current meaning of a word differs significantly from its original or past uses.