How many definitions are there for idiom?

There's no single, agreed-upon number of definitions for "idiom." It's a complex term with various shades of meaning depending on the context.

Here's a breakdown of the main ways "idiom" is used:

1. Linguistics:

* A group of words whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of the individual words. This is the most common definition and applies to phrases like "kick the bucket" (meaning "to die").

* A characteristic manner of speaking, writing, or thinking. This applies to the style of a particular language, dialect, or group. For example, the English idiom "I'm over the moon" doesn't have an exact equivalent in French.

2. Art and Literature:

* A style or manner of expression. This can refer to a particular artistic movement, period, or individual artist. For example, "The Impressionist idiom" refers to the characteristic features of Impressionist painting.

3. Computer Science:

* A set of conventions or practices that are specific to a particular programming language or system. This refers to the unique way code is written or functions operate within a specific technology.

4. Other Specialized Fields:

* A specific set of rules or conventions within a particular field or profession. For example, the legal idiom "beyond a reasonable doubt" has a specific meaning in law.

Therefore, the number of "definitions" for "idiom" depends on how broadly you define it and which context you are considering.