Kory Stamper

Word by Word by Kory Stamper: A Fascinating Journey into the World of Dictionaries

Word by Word, written by Kory Stamper, is an engaging and enlightening exploration of the complex process behind creating dictionaries. The author, who has worked as a lexicographer at Merriam-Webster for over a decade, provides readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous work involved in defining and documenting words. Stamper's wit, humor, and expertise make this book an enjoyable and educational read for anyone interested in the English language, linguistics, and the intricacies of lexicography.

Key Insights and Main Arguments

The Fluidity of Language: One of the key insights put forth by Stamper is the idea that language is ever-changing and constantly evolving. She emphasizes that dictionaries do not dictate the rules of language, but rather document the way people use words at a given time. Stamper explains how words gain new meanings, how grammar rules adapt, and how context plays a crucial role in understanding language.

The Politics of Language: Stamper delves into the controversial aspects of language, such as words that reflect societal biases and prejudices. She highlights how dictionaries have been criticized for perpetuating biases or omitting certain words. Additionally, she explores the challenges of including slang, expletives, and culturally sensitive terms in the dictionary without endorsing or promoting them.

The Complexity of Lexicography: The author provides readers with an inside look at the intricate process of dictionary-making. Stamper reveals the vast amount of research, reading, and collaboration involved in crafting definitions, as well as the challenges of keeping up with new words and lexical phenomena. She also discusses the role of technology in aiding lexicographers and the ongoing debates surrounding prescriptive versus descriptive approaches in defining words.

Significant Evidence and Supporting Details

Throughout the book, Stamper draws on her own experiences as a lexicographer to provide evidence and anecdotes that support her arguments. She shares stories of contentious words, like "marriage," and how lexicographers navigate the political and social implications of defining them. Stamper also explains the meticulous research process, including consulting historical texts, literary works, and conducting extensive readings to trace word origins and changes in meaning.

Additionally, Stamper engages with the readers by addressing frequently asked questions about the dictionary and sharing amusing tales of bizarre word inquiries and requests received by lexicographers. These anecdotes shed light on the challenges faced by lexicographers and the dedication required to create accurate and comprehensive dictionaries.

Conclusion

In Word by Word, Kory Stamper invites readers on a captivating journey through the intricate world of lexicography. Through her expertise and engaging writing style, she demystifies the process of dictionary-making and challenges common assumptions about the English language. With a focus on the fluidity of language, the politics of lexicography, and the complexities faced by dictionary creators, Stamper provides readers with a deep understanding of the ever-changing nature of words.

Word by Word is a must-read for language lovers, word enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the fascinating world of dictionaries. Stamper's blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and linguistic insights make this book an enjoyable and educational experience. For further exploration on the topic, readers may also find The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester and The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester to be rewarding reading options.