What's Happening?
Merriam-Webster is set to publish the 12th edition of its Collegiate Dictionary, marking the first update in over two decades. This edition will include 5,000 new words such as 'cold brew,' 'farm-to-table,' 'rizz,' and 'dad bod.' The dictionary's update comes
as the publisher grapples with the rapid evolution of language in the digital age. Stefan Fatsis, in his book 'Unabridged,' explores the challenges faced by Merriam-Webster in maintaining its role as a repository of American English. The dictionary's social media presence has been noted for its humor, particularly during the Trump era, where it engaged with the public by defining nonwords from President Trump's tweets. Despite these modern engagements, Merriam-Webster remains rooted in traditional lexicography, with its headquarters housing millions of paper slips documenting word usage over centuries.
Why It's Important?
The update of Merriam-Webster's dictionary highlights the ongoing struggle to keep pace with the dynamic nature of language, especially in the digital age. As language evolves rapidly, dictionaries play a crucial role in preserving linguistic heritage and providing authoritative definitions. The inclusion of contemporary terms reflects societal changes and cultural trends, impacting how language is used and understood. This update is significant for educators, writers, and communicators who rely on dictionaries for accurate language representation. Moreover, the dictionary's engagement in cultural discussions, such as the definition of 'girl,' underscores its influence in societal debates and the importance of language in identity politics.
What's Next?
Merriam-Webster's continued updates and engagement with language evolution suggest ongoing adaptations to meet modern linguistic needs. As new words emerge and societal norms shift, the dictionary will likely face further challenges in balancing traditional lexicography with contemporary language trends. The publisher may continue leveraging humor and social media to connect with younger audiences and remain relevant. Additionally, the dictionary's role in cultural and political discussions may expand, influencing public discourse and language use. Future editions may incorporate more digital tools and platforms to enhance accessibility and engagement.
Beyond the Headlines
The evolution of dictionaries like Merriam-Webster reflects broader cultural shifts and the democratization of information. As traditional authorities face skepticism, the dictionary's role as a linguistic arbiter becomes more complex. The rise of digital alternatives challenges the perceived authority of established dictionaries, prompting discussions on the value of curated knowledge versus readily available information. This development raises questions about the future of language preservation and the ethical responsibilities of lexicographers in shaping public understanding of language.
