Here's why:
* Words evolve: Language is dynamic. Over time, words can shift in meaning, acquire new connotations, or even become completely detached from their original intention.
* Slang and informal language: Many slang terms and informal expressions develop organically, with no single person intentionally assigning them meaning.
* Idioms and figurative language: Idioms like "kick the bucket" don't have literal meaning but convey a specific idea through metaphor.
* Sound symbolism: Some words, especially onomatopoeia, are formed to mimic sounds, and their meaning arises naturally from the sound itself.
* Proper nouns: Names of people, places, and things are often chosen without deliberate meaning beyond identification.
It's important to note:
* While not all words have a *consciously intentional* meaning, they all have meaning in context. Even seemingly meaningless words can acquire significance depending on how they are used and what associations they evoke.
* The study of etymology helps us trace the origin and evolution of words, revealing how their meanings have changed over time and how they are shaped by cultural influences.
So, while intentionality might not always be present at the word's inception, words ultimately gain meaning through their use and interaction within a language system.