NEW YORK — Merriam-Webster has embraced the evolving nature of language, announcing a complete reimagining of its acclaimed Collegiate Dictionary with the addition of over 5,000 new words and phrases. The 12th edition will hit shelves on November 18, marking a significant update since its last printed version two decades ago.
Among the new vocabulary entries are enticing terms such as 'petrichor,' which describes the earthy scent released after rainfall, and 'ghost kitchen,' a concept that gained traction during the pandemic. Other additions include terms like 'dumbphone,' 'farm-to-table,' and the slangy 'dad bod' and 'adulting.'
In an effort to make room for these modern terms, the company has removed two sections focused on biographical and geographical entries, recognizing that many users now resort to the internet for such information. Greg Barlow, president of Merriam-Webster, expressed a desire to make the Collegiate Dictionary more user-friendly and visually appealing, while adding that the print version, despite overall declines in reference book sales, remains a treasured format for many.
The print dictionary's importance extends beyond mere word definitions; it plays a crucial role in cultural preservation, especially for indigenous communities that may lack documented languages. Lindsay Rose Russell, executive director of the Dictionary Society of North America, emphasizes that maintaining print dictionaries serves as a validation of these languages, many of which have faced suppression.
Although print sales have seen a decline, retail outlets such as Barnes & Noble reported a spike in dictionary sales this year, suggesting a renewed interest in physical reference materials driven by nostalgia and a perception of educational value. As Merriam-Webster adapts its offerings to meet changing preferences, it remains dedicated to fostering a love for language, both digitally and in print.
