What does "fast mapping" refer to?

Fast mapping refers to the cognitive process in which children are able to quickly and efficiently learn new words after just a few exposures. This phenomenon is particularly evident in early childhood when children seem to pick up new vocabulary rapidly, often during conversations or when they hear new words in context. Through fast mapping, a child hears a word and can make a connection between the word and its meaning almost instantaneously, aiding in their language development.

This ability is essential to vocabulary growth since it allows children to expand their lexicon without requiring extensive repetitions or formal teaching methods. It highlights the remarkable capacity of young learners to absorb language through interaction and context rather than through rote memorization or direct instruction. This process plays a key role in how children develop language skills during their formative years.