How Dictionaries Choose New Words Each Year

The Role of Language Monitoring in Word Selection

Understanding Language Trends

Language is a living entity that evolves over time, reflecting cultural shifts, technological advancements, and societal changes. Dictionaries play a crucial role in documenting this evolution, and one of the primary methods they use to decide which new words to add annually is through language monitoring. This process involves closely observing and analyzing how language is used across various contexts, allowing lexicographers to stay ahead of emerging trends.

Language trends can arise from diverse sources, including popular culture, technology, politics, and social movements. For example, terms like "selfie," which gained prominence with the rise of smartphones and social media, showcase how new technologies can create entirely new vocabulary. In recent years, awareness of social justice issues has introduced terms like "woke," which reflect shifting cultural conversations. This continual monitoring helps dictionaries remain relevant and reflective of contemporary language use.

Data Collection Methods

Dictionaries employ various data collection methods to track language usage. One prominent method is the analysis of written and spoken texts across a wide array of media. This includes everything from books, newspapers, and academic journals to social media posts, blogs, and podcasts. Some dictionaries, such as the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) and Merriam-Webster, have dedicated teams that sift through these texts to identify words and phrases that are gaining traction.

In addition to traditional text analysis, many dictionaries now utilize advanced technological tools such as natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms. These tools can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, identifying patterns in language use that might otherwise go unnoticed. For instance, the Collins English Dictionary uses a database called the Collins Corpus, which includes millions of words from various sources, allowing them to spot emerging trends in real-time.

Examples of Monitored Words

To illustrate how language monitoring works, consider the word "binge-watch," which gained popularity in the early 2010s with the rise of streaming services like Netflix. Through diligent monitoring, dictionaries noted its frequent usage in media and conversation, leading to its official addition. Similarly, terms like "ghosting," which describes the act of suddenly cutting off communication with someone, have been tracked and added due to their prevalence in discussions surrounding dating and relationships.

Another example is "cryptocurrency," which emerged as blockchain technology gained traction. The term's frequency in financial discussions, news articles, and social media dialogues prompted dictionaries to include it in their lexicons, reflecting the growing interest in digital currencies.

The Criteria for Adding New Words

Frequency of Usage

One of the primary criteria dictionaries use to determine whether to add a new word is its frequency of usage. Lexicographers typically look for words that appear consistently across various reputable sources over a specific period. For instance, a word must be used frequently enough to suggest that it has established itself within the language before it can be considered for inclusion in a dictionary.

Many dictionaries set a threshold for the number of citations a word must have to be deemed worthy of inclusion. For example, Merriam-Webster requires that a word be used in at least 1,000 unique citations across various media before they will consider adding it. This requirement ensures that only terms which have gained a certain level of acceptance and usage make it into their publications.

Meaning and Context

In addition to frequency, dictionaries evaluate the meaning and context of new words. Lexicographers must ensure that a word has a clear definition and is used consistently in a particular context. This involves analyzing how the word is used in sentences and whether it conveys a stable meaning that can be reliably defined.

Take the word "adulting," for instance. It describes the practice of behaving in a way characteristic of a responsible adult, often used humorously by younger generations. Its meaning is clear, and it has been widely adopted in conversation, making it a suitable candidate for dictionary inclusion. Lexicographers must also examine whether the term has multiple meanings or connotations, which could complicate its definition.

Demographics of Users

The demographics of users also play a significant role in the decision to add new words. Dictionaries aim to reflect the language used by diverse groups of people, understanding that language can vary considerably based on age, region, and social context. For example, slang that is popular among younger audiences may not initially be included in dictionaries if it has not yet permeated broader language use.

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For instance, the term "lit," which became popular among younger generations to describe something exciting or excellent, was monitored for its usage among teenagers and young adults before being added to dictionaries. By considering the demographics of users, dictionaries ensure they are capturing the full spectrum of language as it evolves.

The Process of Evaluating New Words

Review Panels and Committees

The evaluation of new words typically involves a rigorous process conducted by review panels or committees comprised of lexicographers and language experts. These panels assess the words collected through language monitoring and determine which ones meet the established criteria for inclusion. Each member of the committee brings their expertise, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the words under consideration.

For example, the Oxford English Dictionary has a team of over 100 lexicographers who work collaboratively to evaluate new vocabulary. They consider the word's frequency, meaning, and context, but also engage in discussions about the cultural significance of the term. This collaborative approach helps maintain the integrity and accuracy of the dictionary as a reference resource.

Case Studies of Recent Additions

Recent additions to dictionaries provide insight into the evaluation process. In 2021, Merriam-Webster added words such as "NFT" (non-fungible token) and "deepfake," both of which reflect significant developments in technology and art. These terms were evaluated based on their frequency in media, the clarity of their meanings, and their relevance to contemporary discussions.

Similarly, the Collins English Dictionary included "pingdemic" in its latest update, referring to the phenomenon where people receive notifications to self-isolate due to COVID-19 contact tracing. This term emerged during the pandemic and quickly gained traction, showcasing how current events can drive language evolution and dictionary updates.

Challenges in the Review Process

Despite the structured process of evaluating new words, challenges persist. One significant challenge is the sheer volume of new terms that emerge each year, driven largely by technological advancements and cultural shifts. Lexicographers must prioritize which words to focus on, often relying on their instincts and experience to make these decisions.

Another challenge is determining the longevity of a word. Some terms may spike in popularity due to temporary trends but fade quickly from usage. For example, words related to viral internet challenges may gain a lot of attention in a short period but may not have lasting relevance. Dictionaries must discern between fads and genuinely impactful language changes, which requires a careful and nuanced approach.

The Impact of Technology on Word Selection

Social Media Influence

Social media has dramatically influenced the way language is used and evolved, making it a significant factor in word selection for dictionaries. Platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram allow for rapid dissemination of new words and phrases, often leading to widespread adoption. As a result, lexicographers closely monitor social media trends to identify emerging vocabulary.

For example, the term "FOMO" (fear of missing out) gained momentum through social media discussions around events, gatherings, and experiences. Its rapid spread on platforms like Twitter prompted dictionaries to recognize and define it, showcasing the direct impact social media can have on language evolution.

Online Corpus and Big Data

The advent of big data has revolutionized how dictionaries gather and analyze language usage. Online corpora, which are vast databases of written and spoken texts, allow lexicographers to conduct analyses that were previously impractical. Tools such as Google Ngram Viewer enable researchers to track the frequency of words over time, providing valuable insights into trends in language use.

For instance, the rise of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased usage of terms like "Zoom fatigue" and "remote learning." By analyzing data from online corpora, dictionaries could identify these trends and assess their relevance for inclusion, demonstrating the power of big data in shaping word selection.

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Emerging Slang and Neologisms

Emerging slang and neologisms, or newly coined words, are often at the forefront of language evolution. As youth culture and internet language continue to influence communication, dictionaries must adapt to include these terms. Words like "stan," which refers to an obsessive fan, and "sus," short for suspicious, have gained traction in online communities and have been monitored for inclusion in dictionaries.

Lexicographers recognize that slang often reflects cultural contexts and social dynamics, making it essential to document these terms accurately. However, they also face challenges in determining which slang terms have the potential for longevity and relevance beyond specific communities.

Public Involvement in Word Selection

Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms

Public involvement plays an increasingly important role in the process of word selection for dictionaries. Many dictionary publishers now utilize surveys and feedback mechanisms to gauge public interest in potential new words. These tools allow lexicographers to gather insights from language users about which terms resonate with them and should be included.

For example, Merriam-Webster often conducts surveys to identify words that are gaining popularity in everyday conversations. By engaging with the public, dictionaries can capture the sentiments and preferences of language users, ensuring that their updates align with contemporary language trends.

Voting on Potential Additions

Some dictionaries have also introduced voting mechanisms to allow the public to weigh in on potential additions. This democratic approach not only fosters a sense of community involvement but also signals to lexicographers which words are most valued by users. For instance, Collins Dictionary has hosted "Word of the Year" votes, encouraging public participation in the selection process.

Through these voting initiatives, dictionaries can identify words that resonate strongly within society, ensuring that their content reflects the voices of diverse linguistic communities.

The Role of Linguistic Communities

Linguistic communities play a vital role in shaping language and influencing which words are recognized by dictionaries. Communities defined by cultural, regional, or social ties often develop unique vocabulary that reflects their experiences and identities. Lexicographers must be attuned to these communities to ensure their work is inclusive and representative of the language landscape.

For instance, words like "queer," which has evolved in meaning and usage within LGBTQ+ communities, have been added to dictionaries as a result of increased visibility and acceptance. By acknowledging and documenting the language used within specific communities, dictionaries can better reflect the rich diversity of language and its users.

Conclusion

The process of selecting new words for inclusion in dictionaries is complex and multifaceted. Through language monitoring, evaluation criteria, and technological advancements, lexicographers strive to keep dictionaries relevant and reflective of contemporary language use. Public involvement further enriches this process, allowing the voices of language users to influence the lexicon. As language continues to evolve, so too will the methods by which dictionaries document and recognize new words, ensuring that they remain vital reference materials for generations to come.