Originally (Linguistics): a word which describes, classifies, or refers to another word. Also (in extended use) (Computing): a word which has significance within a given context beyond its usual meaning, e.g. one which is part of a programming or query language.
Origin
1950s. From meta- + word.
Definition of meta-word in US English:
meta-word
nounˈmɛtəwəːd
Originally (Linguistics): a word which describes, classifies, or refers to another word. Also (in extended use) (Computing): a word which has significance within a given context beyond its usual meaning, e.g. one which is part of a programming or query language.