Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better WritingQuickAndDirtyTips.com'Rizz,' 'lost in the sauce,' and Dictionary.com's newest words, with Steve Johnson
In short
Steve Johnson, Director of Lexicography at Dictionary.com, joins Grammar Girl to discuss the recent addition of nearly 6,000 new words. He explains the lexicographical process, the influence of technology, social media, and AI on language, and highlights interesting new slang and specialized terms from various fields. The conversation also touches on the criteria for adding words, the evolution of slang, and the importance of creativity in language.
Key takeaways
- Dictionary.com recently added 5,900 new words, facilitated by technological improvements in their lexicography process.
- New words are emerging from diverse fields including technology (AI), health, science, and pop culture, reflecting current societal trends.
- Slang terms are carefully evaluated for inclusion, often starting in a 'slang dictionary' before potentially moving to the main dictionary.
- Creativity in language, particularly in slang, is crucial to counteract potential linguistic homogenization from AI.
- Anyone can contribute to the evolution of language by creating and using new words.
Chapters
Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
The podcast 'Grammar Girl' welcomes Steve Johnson, Lexicographer at Dictionary.com, to discuss recent word additions and the process of lexicography.
Director of Lexicography Role
Steve Johnson explains his role as Director of Lexicography at Dictionary.com, overseeing the strategy for adding new words and managing the editorial team.
Major Word Drop and Technological Advancements
Johnson discusses a recent 'major word drop' where 5,900 new words were added, attributing the large number to technological upgrades that allow lexicographers to focus more on word selection rather than technical input.
Themes in New Words
The discussion highlights the diverse origins of new words, including health, medicine, science, technology (especially AI), relationships, food, and slang, reflecting the current human experience.
Impact of Social Media and AI on Language
Steve Johnson elaborates on how social media and AI influence language, leading to new terms related to digital experiences and interactions that wouldn't exist in face-to-face communication.
Slang Terminology and Evolution
The conversation delves into slang, with examples like 'STBX' and 'chunky,' illustrating how slang evolves and how its inclusion in the dictionary is determined.
The 'Lost in the Sauce' Idiom
Johnson explains the idiom 'lost in the sauce,' meaning confused or disoriented, often related to intoxication, and its origins in slang for liquor.
Slang Dictionary and Inclusion Criteria
The process of adding slang involves a 'slang dictionary' for tentative entries, with criteria for inclusion in the main dictionary focusing on widespread use, clear meaning, and longevity.
New Words from Pop Culture and AI
Favorite new words include 'Padawan' from Star Wars, 'Balrog' from Lord of the Rings, and terms related to AI like 'overprompting,' reflecting the influence of fandom and technology.
The Role of Creativity in Language
Johnson emphasizes the importance of creativity in language, especially in slang, as a counterpoint to the potential homogenization of language due to AI.
Future Word Drops and Listener Contributions
The next word drop is expected before the holidays. Listeners are encouraged to create and submit their own neologisms, as anyone can impact the evolution of the English language.
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Summary by InboxHiive. Not affiliated with Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing. Written with AI from the episode audio; check the episode for exact quotes.