Language is a unique attribute among human beings. Its usage is as old as human history. A simple outlook on the role of language indicates that human beings use language to facilitate communication from one individual to the other. However, updated and current researches have unearthed various functions of language as discussed later in this essay. Most importantly, researchers have been interested in establishing the relationship between language and semantic memory and most findings indicate that semantic memory precede language acquisition due to the fact that semantic memory is like a granary where words and meanings present in one’s language are stored. Contrastingly, the above presupposition has fueled emergence of contrasting debates between linguists and cognitive psychologists since each side tries to prove that language precede memory and vice versa. Needless to say, the human brain is a complex entity whose functioning remains a mystery among psychologists. However, it is not within the scope of this paper to explore the mystique behind human brain, but to explore the relationship between semantic memory and language production. In order to explicitly explore the above concept clearly, other subtopics such as the nature and function of semantic memory, basic functions of language and stages of language production will also be investigated. Nature and function of semantic memory According to Newmeyer (2005), semantic memory is a dynamic and complex concept, yet it is very significant in child language acquisition. The fact that semantic memory is part and parcel of long term memory that is responsible for storing words, symbols and interpreting their respective meaning further reinforces its significant role in the process of language acquisition (McNamara, 2009). The formation and functioning of semantic memory commences the moment a child starts recognizing words and symbols as they are being used by those around them (Newmeyer, 2005). Once acquired, words, symbols and their meanings, representations and context of usage is stored in the brain via semantic memory. Apparently, being a long term memory, semantic memory may take some time before words and symbols in the input language can be effectively stored and encoded in this memory. Better still, a child needs to be consistently exposed to words and symbols to facilitate full development of semantic memory. Newmeyer (2005) explains that one characteristic that sets out semantic memory from other types of memory is that semantic memory only stores the acquired concept minus the personal experiences that comes into play along the process. For instance, a child will learn the meaning of the word ‘dog’ and its associated symbol, and never forget its meaning while the underlying personal experiences he/she went through during learning are easily forgotten. Correspondingly, the above notion implies that semantic memory is widely used during childhood when new language ideas and concepts are being acquired. Basic functions of language Researchers in linguistics concur that language performs three basic functions. To begin with is the obvious function of language is communication purpose whereby individuals exchange information amongst themselves (Newmeyer, 2