Eating Our Words

Ever since Dr. Samuel Johnson published his famous dictionary in 1755, one of the biggest problems facing the lexicographer has been to decide which newly coined words will last and which are just a short-term fad. Following this tradition, the annual update to the New Oxford American Dictionary names its favorite neologism of the year. In 2006 it was carbon-neutral; in 2007 the word was locavore -- someone who favors fresh, locally produced food. Unlike Dr. Johnson’s dandiprat, looby, and jobbernowl (look them up), this one might even stick around for a while.