Phenomenon

as 'that which is shown'

Morphological analysis

• Etymon: The word phenomenon derives from Ancient Greek φαινόμενον (phainómenon) meaning 'that which is shown'.
• Morpheme breakdown: φαιν.ό.μενον (phain.ó.menon) from φαιν- (phain-), meaning 'to show' + the suffix -μενον (-menon), meaning 'that which is' => 'that which is shown'.

Essential definition

Phenomenon: 'that which is shown'

Semantic context

• Conventional sense: An extraordinary, remarkable, or unusual event, person, or thing. Something that captures widespread attention. A notable occurrence (Note: Semantic drift from essential meaning)
• Essential meaning (my usage): 'that which is shown'

Philosophical significance

The definition anchors 'phenomenon' in the primacy of direct experience and manifestation, establishing a fundamental epistemological distinction between what is immediately shown and what is merely known by report or belief. This creates a clear foundation for analyzing knowledge, privileging first-hand apprehension over second-hand acceptance.

Usage in this lexicon

When I use the word phenomenon in my work, I mean exactly 'that which is shown'. This definition:

• clarifies the etymological foundation, linking the term directly to its Greek roots;
• emphasizes the aspect of direct manifestation or revelation inherent in the concept;
• distinguishes the concept clearly from forms of knowledge based on belief or indirect report;
• anchors the definition in the concrete idea of appearance or demonstration;
• provides a stable, literal basis for philosophical discussion by focusing on the act of showing;
• avoids conflating the concept with interpretations or theories applied to what is shown; and
• supports a clear epistemological distinction between direct experience and secondary knowledge.

Related terms

• Noumenon

Sources

• Wiktionary

*This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See the Methodology for details.