News flash on the literary landscape the Oxford English Dictionary unveiled 1200 new words in its latest edition, giving the English language a shot of adrenalin. Here are a sampling for all devoted wordsmiths to ponder and perhaps even weave into their work:*
Clicktivism: The practice of signaling support for a political or social cause by means of the Internet, through social media, online petitions, etc., rather than more substantive involvement.
YOLO: “You only live once” used to express the view that one should make the most of the present moment without worrying about the future (often as a rationale for impulsive or reckless behaviour)
Fremium: A business model, especially on the Internet, whereby basic services are provided free of charge while more advanced features must be paid for.
Non-apology: A statement that takes the form of an apology but does not acknowledge responsibility or express regret for what has caused offense or upset; an insincere or unconvincing apology.
Yoda: A person who embodies the characteristics of Yoda, especially in being wise ; an elder, sage or guru.
The new edition also paid homage to the beloved children’s writer Roald Dahl, who was born 100 years ago this September, by adding a number of words he invented: frightsome, scrummy, splendiferous, and splendiferousness. The word dahlesque was also added, which means ” Resembling or characteristic of the works of Roald Dahl.”
Wow, having your name turned into a word — literary lightning! Write on.
* Definitions according to the Oxford English Dictionary