“How do you know a word is a word?” This is the question that lexicographers — the people who create dictionaries — tackle in the most surprising and, sometimes, painstaking ways.
1. Lexicographers’ Unique and Quiet Profession
A lexicographer’s job goes beyond simply loving words; it requires solitude and meticulousness. Dictionary writing demands focus, as it often involves hours of quiet, intensive research within the confines of a cubicle.
Lexicography, though an obscure career, attracts individuals from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. No specific field of study is requisite, but a strong command of language is. Specialists often contribute their expertise — such as mathematicians for mathematical terms — making lexicographers a varied group.
Applicants are forewarned that lexicography is not inherently social work. New hires may find themselves on silent editorial floors, surrounded by others poring over word usage. Those passionate about diving into the details of language fit right in.
Examples
- Merriam-Webster’s editorial atmosphere is described as “deafeningly silent.”
- Professionals like queer studies experts and sports enthusiasts contribute rich dimensions.
- The job appeals to introverted “language nerds” who relish solitary work.
2. Grammar: A Puzzle with No Straight Answers
Grammar is not simply about following rules; it’s about wrestling with messy exceptions. For lexicographers, defining a single word can turn into a debate, demonstrating how elusive grammatical categories are.
Even small words can puzzle experts. Consider the word “but” in “What can they do but try?” Some think it’s a preposition because of an implied infinitive, while others view it as a conjunction connecting clauses. No definitive rule applies here.
Tradition influences many grammatical classifications. For instance, the word “the” has long been called an adjective, even though linguists may disagree. Historical labels linger, showing that grammar evolves but doesn’t always resolve.
Examples
- “But” challenged lexicographers as both a conjunction and a preposition.
- “The” stayed classified as an adjective since the 19th century.
- Lexicographers often decide between conflicting interpretations.
3. No Absolutes: Grammar Judgments Vary
Grammar isn’t a moral code dictating right from wrong but a tool for recording how people actually use language. Misconceptions about grammar fuel debates about what’s “correct.”
Consider the controversy around “ten items or less” versus “ten items or fewer.” Traditionalists declare one wrong and the other correct, but language evolves beyond static rules. Lexicographers aim to document real-world usage, not enforce stylistic preferences.
Lexicographers themselves sometimes confront their biases. For instance, words like “good” used as adverbs challenge long-held beliefs. Ultimately, grammar is fluid, shifting with how speakers and writers express themselves.
Examples
- Supermarket signs saying “less” rather than “fewer” ignite debates.
- “Good” functions as both an adjective (“good idea”) and adverb (“doing good”).
- Tutorials at Merriam-Webster gave even seasoned experts a reality check.
4. Words We Consider “Wrong” Have Hidden Histories
Words often dismissed as incorrect or nonsensical sometimes have long-standing uses in practice. For instance, “irregardless” has sparked debates because of its unusual construction.
Though labeled nonstandard, “irregardless” has historical examples dating back to the 19th century. Some believe it acts as an emphatic word, like a heightened form of “regardless.” These findings remind us that language often develops from blending and creative experimentation.
Lexicographers trace usages of controversial words, even when opinions about them differ. They see words not as fixed entities but as tools adapting to speakers’ needs over time.
Examples
- “Irregardless” blends elements of “irrespective” and “regardless.”
- 19th-century citations provide evidence of its common usage.
- A modern Mississippian argued it conveys emphasis, much like “nicest” does for “nice.”
5. The Limits of Dictionary Definitions
Dictionaries provide lexical definitions — descriptions of how words are used — rather than philosophical ones. Confusion arises when readers expect more profound interpretations.
Take the word “love.” Merriam-Webster defines its common usages, like affection or enjoyment of pizza, but it doesn’t explore its deeper nature. Some readers, however, misconstrue such entries as minimizing complex emotions.
Lexicographers focus on practical usage over abstract analysis. They catalog words as they occur in language without delving into universal truths or metaphysical meanings.
Examples
- Readers critique the dictionary’s definition of love for “lacking depth.”
- Philosophers, not lexicographers, define concepts like love or truth.
- Common expressions — “I love pizza” — guide word entries.
6. Not Every Word Gets Accepted
For a word to enter the dictionary, it must fulfill three criteria: frequency of use, enduring relevance, and meaningfulness. Words without these traits don’t make the cut.
For instance, specialized terms in niche publications don’t usually gain wider acceptance unless used across diverse sources. Some trendy words fade too quickly to gain legitimacy, while others, like “antidisestablishmentarianism,” exist mainly as curiosities.
Lexicographers learned this lesson with “snollygoster,” a forgotten 19th-century word for an unprincipled person. When it re-entered public discourse, its absence from the dictionary proved embarrassing.
Examples
- Specialized jargon lacks widespread presence and fails the first test.
- “Snollygoster” gained popularity after being dropped prematurely.
- Trendy but transient words often don’t survive evaluation.
7. Crafted Examples Must Be Careful
Citations — examples showing how a word is used — require thoughtful selection. They illustrate meaning without distracting or confusing readers.
Finding suitable citations often proves challenging. The best examples are straightforward, yet not overly dull. Crafting original sentences as substitutes carries risks, too; lexicographers might inadvertently inject personal flair, which editors usually remove.
Some crafted citations add charm, though. Under “portly,” Merriam-Webster mentions a “grande dame’s” grace, hinting at the art involved in dictionary writing.
Examples
- Citations should reflect common usage and avoid unnecessary frills.
- Merriam-Webster’s “portly” citation includes a colorful anecdote.
- Editors prioritize clarity above creativity in crafted examples.
8. Lexicography and Controversy
While dictionaries aim to document language neutrally, changes can provoke disputes. Revisions reflect linguistic shifts, but some see them as ideological statements.
In 2003, Merriam-Webster included “phat” and updated “marriage” to cover same-sex unions. Both stirred reactions, with critics either mocking or attacking the decisions. Amid the backlash, lexicographers clarified their role as chroniclers, not arbiters.
Dictionary entries mirror societal changes, yet misunderstandings of this role often thrust lexicographers into unintended debates.
Examples
- “Phat” entered the dictionary despite skepticism about its worth.
- Same-sex unions under “marriage” sparked media outrage.
- Critics misperceived dictionaries as endorsing trends rather than recording them.
9. The Living Nature of Dictionaries
Dictionaries are evolving records, not static resources, adapting along with language. They represent everyday usage and challenge our understanding of words.
Words like “irregardless” or “snollygoster” highlight how dictionaries document shifts in meanings and popularity. Entries reflect how people actually communicate, confronting readers’ biases and preconceptions.
This dynamic nature makes dictionaries relevant and illuminating, showing us endlessly fascinating layers of language.
Examples
- Modern lexicographers update definitions in response to new usages.
- Revival of terms like “snollygoster” proves dictionaries adjust to cultural waves.
- Dictionaries strike a balance between tradition and contemporary trends.
Takeaways
- Approach grammar as a flexible tool rather than a set of rigid rules to enjoy language more freely.
- Explore dictionary entries in print to discover unexpected connections and deeper understanding.
- Think of words as tools of communication, appreciating how they evolve with human creativity.