How Merriam-Webster decides to add new words, phrases to dictionary

Key Concepts

• New Dictionary Updates: Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary has released its first hard copy update in over two decades, adding over 5,000 new words and phrases.
• Word Inclusion Process: The process involves extensive research, scouring texts for usage, seeking citations (evidence of use), and observing when a word is no longer explained in quotes, parentheses, or italics, indicating it's understood by fluent speakers.
• "Stickiness" of Words: Words must demonstrate longevity and widespread use ("stickiness") to be included, distinguishing them from fads or temporary slang.
• Active Vocabulary: Merriam-Webster aims to record the "active" vocabulary of American English, meaning words that are currently in use.
• New Word Examples:
  • Petrichor: The smell of the earth after rain.
  • Rizz: Charisma.
  • Cold Brew: A specific method of brewing coffee.
  • Dadbod: A physique associated with middle-aged men.
  • Dad Joke: A type of humor.

New Words and Phrases in Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary

The Process of Word Inclusion

Peter Sakalowski, Editor at Large at Merriam-Webster, explains the rigorous process by which new words, idioms, and phrases are added to the dictionary. The core of this work is research and revision. Merriam-Webster editors and writers meticulously "scour text" to identify words that are being used by a significant number of people.

Key aspects of the inclusion process include:

• Usage Frequency and Breadth: Words are "clocked" and noticed if they appear frequently, particularly in print.
• Citation Gathering: Evidence of a word's use, known as "citations," is crucial. The emphasis is on citations from major publications, signifying an intention for a broad audience to understand the word.
• Linguistic Indicators: Editors look for signs that a word is becoming established. This includes observing when a word is no longer presented in quotes, explained in parentheses, or italicized. When these linguistic "white gloves" are removed, it suggests that fluent speakers are expected to know and understand the word without explanation.

From Slang to Standard: The Role of Print

While many new words originate from informal sources like texting or social media (e.g., "LOL," "am I right"), their path to the dictionary is through transcription and publication. Sakalowski emphasizes that "writing is the gold standard for us" because it provides the necessary evidence for assessment. Therefore, spoken slang doesn't directly enter the dictionary; it must first transition into print. This means Merriam-Webster acts as a "lag indicator" of language, essentially reporting on what has already become established.

The Concept of "Stickiness"

A critical factor for word inclusion is "stickiness." Words that are jargony or only last for a year are unlikely to be added. Sakalowski states, "Words come and words go. And so the fact is we've always tried to be the record of the current active vocabulary of American English." The term "active" is key, distinguishing words that are genuinely in use from fleeting fads or terms tied to specific cultural moments (like a movie) that are likely to disappear.

Notable New Additions and Their Significance

Sakalowski highlights several words and phrases that have been added to this latest edition:

• Petrichor: This word, defined as "the smell of the earth after rain," is a personal favorite of Sakalowski. He notes that it has been in circulation for decades but is now appearing in fluent writing and speech without explanation, signifying its acceptance. He also suggests its potential for modification, such as "urban petrichor" or "rural petrichor," indicating its recognition as a name for a real, distinct phenomenon.
• Rizz: Defined simply as "charisma," this term represents a more recent linguistic development.
• Cold Brew: Sakalowski argues for the necessity of including "cold brew" because its meaning is not simply the sum of its parts ("cold" and "brew"). It represents a specific fusion and method that warrants its own entry.
• Dadbod and Dad Joke: These terms are also new to this edition, reflecting contemporary cultural references and humor.

Conclusion

The addition of over 5,000 new words to the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary signifies a significant update to the record of American English. The process is driven by rigorous research, the collection of evidence through print usage, and a focus on words that demonstrate "stickiness" and are part of the "active vocabulary." New entries like "petrichor," "rizz," and "cold brew" illustrate the dictionary's commitment to reflecting the evolving language of its users.