In a sweeping update that captures the pulse of modern language, Merriam-Webster has added more than 5,000 new words to its Collegiate Dictionary, marking the first full revision of the iconic reference book in over two decades. The 12th edition, set for release on November 18, reflects the evolving ways we communicate—from internet slang and pandemic-era terms to lifestyle trends and tech jargon.
📘 A Dictionary for the Digital Age
The update is more than a vocabulary expansion—it’s a cultural snapshot. Merriam-Webster’s president, Greg Barlow, described the overhaul as a move to make the dictionary “more useful, more fun to browse, and more practical for research”. To make room for the new entries, the company removed outdated biographical and geographical sections and retired obscure words like enwheel (meaning “encircle”).
🗣️ Words That Made the Cut
Here are just a few of the standout additions:
• Rizz: Slang for charisma or charm, popularized by Gen Z on social media.
• Adulting: The act of taking on grown-up responsibilities—paying bills, doing laundry, and generally surviving adulthood.
• Hard pass: A firm rejection, often used in casual conversation.
• Dad bod: A body type that’s soft around the edges, typically associated with middle-aged men.
• Cold brew: A coffee preparation method that’s become a staple in cafes and kitchens.
• Ghost kitchen: A commercial cooking space used for delivery-only food services, which surged during the pandemic.
• Dumbphone: A basic mobile phone without smart features, often favored for digital detox.
• Teraflop: A unit of computing speed, especially relevant in tech circles.
• Doomscroll: The compulsive act of consuming negative news online.
• WFH: Acronym for “working from home,” a term that became ubiquitous during COVID lockdowns.
📚 More Than Just Definitions
The new edition includes over 20,000 fresh usage examples and enhanced entries for frequently searched words. It also features curated word lists by decade and expanded etymologies—like the fact that calculate comes from the Latin word for “pebble,” referencing ancient counting methods.
Despite declining print dictionary sales, Merriam-Webster remains a digital powerhouse, with its website drawing over a billion visits annually. The company’s online presence, mobile apps, and word games have helped it thrive in the internet age.
This update isn’t just about keeping up with trends—it’s about honoring the dynamic nature of language itself. Whether you're a word nerd or a casual browser, the new Collegiate Dictionary offers a fresh lens on how we speak, write, and connect today.