English Language Question

[niemeyjt]

Calling English experts!

We often see "gate" and "thon" - derived from Watergate and Marathon - appended to other words to imply a scandal or an epic effort.

E.G. partygate and telethon

What is this called? Back-formation does not quite describe it.

[Wilbro]

It's just silly. Why stick gate on the end of things simply because of Watergate?

[Quiksilver]

Isn't it called 'American'?

[Blaze]

Agree with Quiksilver, "Americanism" describes it perfectly (especially with 'ism' on the end)

[rabbit]

Portmanteau word

[niemeyjt]

Thanks. I knew I should have paid more attention in my English 'O' level classes.

[rabbit]

But then we might not have had the pleasure of your wit