For the first time in two decades, a highly-anticipated new dictionary is making its way to the shelves. Merriam-Webster, the renowned publisher of reference books and dictionaries, is set to release the Twelfth Edition of their Collegiate Dictionary, marking a significant milestone for the company. The last time Merriam-Webster unveiled a new edition of this magnitude was twenty years ago, making this upcoming release a momentous occasion for language enthusiasts and book lovers alike.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Collegiate-Dictionary93025-e1599646723e4ceb94e2d0866d6da328.jpg)
Greg Barlow, the President of Merriam-Webster, expressed excitement about the upcoming launch, highlighting the dictionary’s significance in a digital age. Despite the shift towards digital products, the enduring appeal of physical books remains strong, with Merriam-Webster continuing to sell over a million dictionaries annually. Barlow emphasised that the new Twelfth Edition is the finest Collegiate Dictionary the company has ever published, appealing to those who appreciate the enduring charm of printed volumes.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the new edition is the inclusion of a plethora of contemporary words and phrases that have become part of everyday vocabulary. Terms such as “cold brew,” “farm-to-table,” “rizz,” and “dad bod” are just a few examples of the modern language additions that readers can expect to find in the upcoming Collegiate Dictionary. With over 5,000 new words, 1,000 phrases and idioms, enhanced entries, and additional usage examples, the dictionary aims to cater to students, professionals, and language enthusiasts worldwide.
The evolution of language and cultural shifts over the past two decades necessitated a comprehensive update to the dictionary. Since the last publication in 2003, Merriam-Webster recognised the need to reflect the changes in language usage and the world at large. With a keen eye on staying relevant in a rapidly changing linguistic landscape, the Twelfth Edition promises to capture the essence of contemporary communication.
The digital realm has played a significant role in Merriam-Webster’s growth, with a substantial increase in revenue from digital products over the past decade. Despite this digital transformation, the heart of the company remains rooted in traditional printed materials, exemplified by the meticulous craft and care put into the creation of the new dictionary. The vibrant red cover of the Twelfth Edition symbolises not just a reference book but a timeless artefact that embodies the essence of language and knowledge.
In a nod to pop culture and societal trends, Merriam-Webster continues to stay current by introducing phrases like “UAP”, “smishing”, and “rage quit” in its latest edition. These additions reflect the ever-evolving nature of language and the impact of contemporary issues on our vocabulary. The editorial team at Merriam-Webster, led by Peter Sokolowski, remains dedicated to providing readers with insights and satisfaction through their definition of modern terminology.
Language enthusiasts and book connoisseurs can look forward to the release of the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary, the Twelfth Edition on November 18, 2025. The dictionary is currently available for pre-order, offering readers the opportunity to delve into a comprehensive and updated collection of words and phrases that reflect the richness and diversity of the English language. As the countdown to the release date begins, anticipation is high for the unveiling of this essential reference guide that encapsulates the linguistic zeitgeist of the 21st century.
[End of article]