How Dictionaries Select New Words Each Year
Each year, dictionaries across the globe update their word lists, adding new entries that reflect the dynamic nature of language. The selection process is not arbitrary; it involves a rigorous methodology that balances linguistic trends, cultural shifts, and societal changes. Understanding how dictionaries decide which words to include can provide valuable insights into language evolution and the world around us.
Criteria for Word Selection
Frequency of Usage
One of the primary criteria for adding new words to a dictionary is their frequency of usage. Linguists and lexicographers track how often a word is used in various media, including books, newspapers, and online platforms. For instance, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) employs a vast database of citations to assess how frequently a word appears in contemporary language. According to OED, a word must be used in a variety of contexts and demonstrate a consistent presence in the language for at least a year before it is considered for inclusion.
Meaning and Relevance
Beyond mere frequency, the meaning and relevance of a word are critical in the selection process. A new word must convey a clear and specific meaning that resonates with speakers. For example, the term "selfie" was added to the dictionary because it represented a cultural phenomenon that was widely understood and used. The word not only described a new behavior but became a part of everyday vernacular, highlighting its significance in modern communication.
Longevity and Sustainability
Dictionaries are cautious about adding words that may be fleeting trends. Words that emerge from fads or temporary cultural phenomena are often scrutinized for their longevity. For instance, "fidget spinner" saw a meteoric rise in popularity in 2017 but has since become less common in everyday language. Lexicographers look for words that have a sustained presence over time, ensuring they are not just passing phrases but are likely to endure in the lexicon.
Research Methodologies Employed
Corpus Linguistics
Corpus linguistics is a significant tool in the word selection process. Dictionaries compile large corpora—databases of written and spoken language—analyzing them for patterns and trends. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary, for example, utilizes a corpus that includes millions of words from various sources, including books, newspapers, and online articles. By analyzing this data, lexicographers can identify emerging words and phrases, as well as gauge their usage in different contexts.
Expert Consultations
In addition to data analysis, dictionaries often consult experts in linguistics, language studies, and cultural trends. These consultations may involve panels of linguists who evaluate the potential inclusion of new words. For instance, the American Heritage Dictionary regularly convenes a panel of experts to discuss and vote on proposed new words. This expert insight helps ensure that the words chosen for inclusion are not only linguistically valid but also culturally significant.
Public Contributions and Suggestions
Many dictionaries encourage public participation in the word selection process. Users can submit suggestions for new words, which are then reviewed by lexicographers. For example, the Collins Dictionary allows users to suggest words via its online platform, fostering a collaborative relationship between the dictionary and its audience. This approach not only keeps dictionaries current but also reflects the evolving nature of language as shaped by its speakers.
The Role of Technology in Word Tracking
Data Analytics Tools
Advancements in technology have revolutionized how dictionaries track and analyze language. Data analytics tools enable lexicographers to sift through vast amounts of linguistic data quickly. For example, tools like Google Ngram Viewer allow researchers to analyze the frequency of word usage over time across a wide range of published works. Such tools provide invaluable insights into trends and shifts in language, making the selection process more data-driven and precise.
Social Media Monitoring
Social media platforms have become a rich source of linguistic data. Dictionaries now monitor trends on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to identify emerging words and phrases. The rapid spread of language on these platforms often reflects cultural shifts in real-time. For instance, words like "woke" and "ghosting" gained traction through social media, leading to their eventual inclusion in dictionaries as they captured significant societal conversations.
Web Scraping Techniques
Web scraping techniques are employed to gather data from various online sources. This method allows lexicographers to track how frequently specific words are used across countless websites, blogs, and forums. By automating the collection of this data, dictionaries can keep their word lists up-to-date with contemporary usage. For example, the Cambridge Dictionary uses web scraping to monitor language trends continuously, ensuring that they capture the most relevant and current terms.
Impact of Cultural Trends on Word Selection
Influence of Pop Culture
Pop culture has a profound impact on the selection of new words for dictionaries. Terms that emerge from music, movies, television, and celebrity culture often find their way into the lexicon. For example, the word "binge-watch" became popularized by streaming platforms like Netflix, reflecting a shift in how people consume media. Its inclusion in dictionaries acknowledges the influence of modern entertainment on language and communication.
Regional Variations and Dialects
Dictionaries also consider regional variations and dialects when selecting new words. Language is not static; it evolves differently in various geographic areas. For instance, the word "gobbledygook," which originated in American English, may not be as recognized in British English. Dictionaries like the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam-Webster strive to include words that reflect the diversity of English-speaking populations, ensuring that regional variations are represented and celebrated.
Political and Social Movements
Political and social movements play a significant role in shaping language, leading to the emergence of new terminology that reflects current events. For example, words like "Brexit" and "Me Too" were added to dictionaries as they represented significant societal shifts. The inclusion of such terms acknowledges the importance of language in documenting social change and raising awareness of critical issues. Dictionaries aim to capture these movements through language, reflecting the evolving landscape of society.
Challenges in Word Inclusion
Controversial Terms and Sensitivity
One of the challenges dictionaries face is the inclusion of controversial terms that may evoke strong reactions. Words associated with sensitive topics, such as race, gender, or politics, require careful consideration. Lexicographers must balance the need to reflect contemporary language with the potential for harm or misunderstanding. For example, terms like "cancel culture" have sparked debate regarding their implications, making their inclusion a contentious issue for dictionaries striving for neutrality and accuracy.
Balancing Innovation with Tradition
Dictionaries must also navigate the tension between innovation and tradition. While it is essential to recognize new words that reflect changing language, there is a risk of diluting the integrity of the lexicon. Lexicographers are tasked with maintaining a balance between embracing linguistic evolution and preserving the historical significance of established terms. This challenge requires a thoughtful approach to ensure that dictionaries remain authoritative sources while adapting to the times.
Public Perception and Acceptance
Lastly, public perception and acceptance of new words can influence their inclusion in dictionaries. Words that are met with skepticism or resistance may be scrutinized more rigorously. For instance, "adulting," a term used to describe the practice of behaving like an adult, faced initial backlash before gaining widespread acceptance. Dictionaries must consider not only the linguistic validity of a word but also how it is perceived by the public, ensuring that their entries resonate with users.
In conclusion, the process of selecting new words for inclusion in dictionaries is a complex, multifaceted endeavor. It involves a careful analysis of usage frequency, meaning, and longevity, as well as rigorous research methodologies and technological advancements. Cultural trends, regional variations, and societal movements all play a crucial role in shaping the lexicon we use today. While challenges abound, dictionaries continue to evolve, reflecting the vibrant and ever-changing nature of language.
