Go to the OED Online website and search for words that are...

Go to the OED Online website and search for words that are in the dictionary but have no known definition. To do this, click on Advanced Search (look towards the top of the $O E D$ home page), and type into the first open box "meaning obscure" or "of obscure meaning." Then choose three words and read through their entries. Do you think the OED was justified in including these words? If so, why? If not, why not?

Key Concepts

Lexicography

Lexicography is the art and science of compiling, writing, and editing dictionaries. It involves deep research into the etymology, usage, and evolution of words, as well as decisions regarding what to include based on corpus evidence and historical significance. This discipline requires balancing descriptive accounts of language with prescriptive norms and ensuring that subtle aspects of words, including obscure and less common meanings, are documented.

Inclusion Criteria

The inclusion criteria refer to the guidelines and standards that lexicographers use when deciding which words to record in a dictionary. This can involve factors such as a word’s historical usage, cultural significance, and frequency of occurrence, even if its meaning is not well known. Including words with obscure meanings can provide a fuller picture of language development and usage, ensuring that the record is both comprehensive and reflective of linguistic reality.

Historical Documentation

Dictionaries like the OED serve as historical records of the language. Including words that have obscure meanings or limited contemporary usage helps illustrate the evolution of language over time. By preserving such entries, lexicographers document how words have been used in different contexts and periods, contributing to an understanding of cultural and semantic shifts across history.

Language Evolution

Language evolution acknowledges that words can undergo significant changes in meaning, usage, and relevance over time. Incorporating words with obscure definitions is important because it reflects the dynamic nature of language. Words that may seem obsolete or unclear today can provide insights into past linguistic practices and societal values, emphasizing that language is continually evolving.

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