The Evolution of Words: How Dictionaries Reflect Usage and What Merriam-Webster's Definition of 'Trumpism' Might Mean

Consider the state of language today and the dynamic nature of its evolution. Words, once constructed to encapsulate specific meanings, often transcend their origins and fluidly adapt to reflect current contexts and collective consciousness.

Incorporating Contemporary Meanings into Dictionaries

Dictionaries do not delegate the task of defining words to their users; rather, they track and document how those words are already being used. This process of natural language evolution plays a crucial role in the ongoing expansion and refinement of our lexicon.

Merriam-Webster, a prominent lexical authority, is no stranger to this practice. It has historically adjusted definitions to include new nuances and sub-meanings as they become pervasive in public discourse. For instance, aint, a contraction for am not, remains in its dictionary form because it is still widely used and understood by English speakers. This recognition is a validation of ongoing usage, rather than an endorsement or condemnation.

The Case of 'Trumpism'

Now, let's examine the concept of Trumpism through the lens of this linguistic evolution. Consider the article that proposed Merriam-Webster might define Trumpism as stupidity and ignorance in the face of facts. This suggestion, while provocative, parallels the broader approach of dictionaries in documenting language usage.

If Merriam-Webster were to include this definition, it would evidence a widespread and significant change in how the term Trumpism is being employed. It is essential to understand that this would not be an endorsement of the new meaning, but a reflection of the increasing usage of Trumpism in this context by a majority of people.

Evolving Meanings of 'Trumpism'

However, the new meaning is not likely to overshadow the primary definition. Merriam-Webster would likely maintain the original definition, one that identifies supporters of Donald John Trump, the 45th President of the United States, as the primary reference. This dual-definition approach is common, as a word can carry multiple meanings based on context and usage.

It's worth noting that the two definitions—followers of Donald John Trump, the 45th President of the United States of America and stupidity and ignorance in the face of facts—are not mutually exclusive. They can coexist and overlap, reflecting the multifaceted nature of language and the complex realities of political discourse today.

Lexical Researchers and Precision in Definition

Merriam-Webster’s methods are rooted in precision and objectivity. Lexical researchers meticulously track and analyze word usage to ensure that dictionaries accurately reflect contemporary language. This means that any new meaning added to a dictionary is based on empirical data and does not reflect a personal judgment or bias. The new meaning would be recorded as a secondary reference, alongside the primary definition, to provide a comprehensive picture of how the word is being used.

For context, the process of defining new words or updating existing ones in a dictionary involves extensive research and collaboration among linguists, lexicographers, and experts in the field. This ensures that the definitions are rooted in real-world usage patterns, rather than subjective interpretations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dictionaries like Merriam-Webster are not prescriptive in how words should be used; they are descriptive, documenting how words are already being used. The proposed addition of stupidity and ignorance in the face of facts as a definition for Trumpism would reflect a significant shift in how the term is being used, but not necessarily a shift in its primary meaning. This aligns with the broader ethos of dictionaries, which prioritize recording and reporting the usage patterns of words, ensuring that they continue to serve as reliable and inclusive sources of linguistic reference.

Diving into the evolution of words, especially ones as contentious and significant as Trumpism, highlights the dynamic and adaptive nature of language. By understanding this, we can better appreciate the complexity and nuance in how languages evolve and respond to the changing times.