Despite having no success in getting in contact with Oxford English Dictionary themselves even after a few emails the only communication I got was on Twitter and they tweeted back (13th November 2013), “You can find more information about contributing to the OED here: oxford.ly/SEEvxn”
I was keen to create a small post in this area to show that I have taken some time to understand what the requirements are for word submissions in to the Oxford English Dictionary.
Many times I get asked why the Oxford English Dictionary so specifically. That is simple, and as stated on their site, “Oxford leads the field in recording the entry of today’s new words into the language.”
Understanding what is needed to get words in the dictionary is key to this project. And despite this not going to be reached in the timescales for the module I want to ensure I maintain the criteria in mind at all times.
Firstly it is required for the words to be seen published and this can be in “…magazines, newspapers, books, song lyrics, practical manuals – indeed from any published source.” It is also interesting to find that they too consider slang and dialect words.
They also consider new usages of words so be this change of meaning or slight alteration of how and where this word is used. In addition they consider new pronunciation and even spellings! The world is our oyster here!
Their submission process takes place online and then access to draft or revise entry. Interesting it seems unclear to whether it goes in the dictionary or just sits in their records!
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Bibliography
Contribute to the OED. http://public.oed.com/the-oed-today/contribute-to-the-oed/
