According to Raghib Isphahani in Mafuradat the word “Khalq” means to have a correct estimate about something but now it is used for creation and initiation of something that had no previous equals.
In Maqayis-ol-Loghata there are two meanings for this word: 1. Have a correct estimate and 2. Something becoming clear and this why a clear stone is called “Khalqa” and the inner attributes are called “Ikhlaq” because it too is a beginning of sorts. This is the base of ascertaining between creation and beginning and contains arrangement and adornment. It is also used to denote something created which no previous similitude.