An acronym is a kind of abbreviation. It is a word formed by taking letters from a phrase that is too long to use comfortably.
eg: Laser is an acronym of Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
If the letters do not make a word, but are pronounced individually, as in the CIA or the BBC, it can be called an initialism.
Michael Cleary - Clerk to Owslebury Parish Council, Yew Tree House, Hensting Lane, Owslebury Winchester. SO21 1LE Telephone: 01962-777313 Email:owsleburyparishcouncil@gmail.com