Wordie Update: Merriam-Webster Adds 850 New Words
I pored over the book. I poured over the book. Were you studying or did you spill your coffee?
When we’re in a hurry, it’s easy to forget words that sound the same in the English language can have different meanings. That’s why the de facto authority for many of us isn’t spellcheck or an online thesaurus but a dictionary, such as Merriam-Webster. It’s good to know that some of the words we’re seeing in the headlines are being included. The Merriam-Webster dictionary blog noted they recently added 850 new words and definitions that come from a cross-section of our linguistic culture.
For example, did you know that if a company is referred to as a “unicorn,” it’s probably not being labeled simply a mythical best; it’s a business start-up that’s valued at one billion dollars or more. There are also entries now for cryptocurrency, initial coin offering, and Bitcoin, along with microfinance and microcredit.
If your family vacation plans include experiencing nature and having fun in the great outdoors, you might specify if you prefer to go camping or glamping.
Here are some other sources you may find helpful from "Tips and Resources for Better Writing".
AP Stylebook: The Associated Stylebook is available online and in print. Did you realize “internet” is no longer capitalized?
Grammar Girl: Quick and Dirty Tips: Mignon Fogarty makes grammar funny. Seriously.
Grammarly: A free writing app that’s a step above basic spelling and grammar check.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-understand definition of technology jargon using analogies and metaphors, take a look at "Sideways: A Tech Dictionary for Everyone".
Finally, check out Merriam-Webster’s Twitter announcement for “Chiweenie” (a cross between a Chihuahua and a dachshund). If you find this at all interesting, you might be a wordie, one of the new words that means “word lover.”
