New Words That Need To Be In the Dictionary

Summary

The article discusses the creation of new words to describe unique concepts, with the author suggesting several inventive terms for potential inclusion in the dictionary.

Abstract

The author of the article, inspired by a writer's use of the term "vulnerebel," proposes a playful linguistic exercise: inventing new words to fill gaps in the English language. The article introduces several neologisms, each with a definition, such as "nexting" for nagging via text, "dotpause" for the hesitation in messaging indicated by typing dots, and "vlock" for the instinctive protective stance parents take against a child's vomit. Other terms include "henopause" for when hens stop laying eggs, "astralglow" for the warmth felt on a seat recently vacated, and "arcticblonde" for a distinguished shade of blonde hair. The author invites readers to contribute their own word creations and highlights the communal aspect of language evolution.

Opinions

The author believes that language should evolve to include terms for experiences that currently lack names.
There is an appreciation for the creativity involved in crafting new words that capture specific situations or emotions.
The article suggests that readers have the agency to influence language by popularizing new terms.
The inclusion of a personal anecdote about protecting a carpet from a child's vomit indicates a parent's perspective on the instinctual nature of certain actions.
The author playfully reimagines the concept of aging hair as "arcticblonde," suggesting a positive spin on going grey.
By inviting others to join in the word creation process, the author fosters a sense of community and shared enjoyment in linguistic innovation.

Vlock is one

I was reading the profile of a writer I recently met and noticed that Adam Slawson used a word I’d never heard of: “vulnerebel”.

He used it like this:

Vulnerebel — “Writing about being a vulnerebel in life, love and business. Founder of Plight Club — The first rule is: you DO talk about it-

I was reminded of a game we used to play in college and thought it would be fun to bring it to my friends here. Here goes:

Invent five new words, and give us their definitions.

We all know situations or things that should have a name, but they don’t.

Make up a word that you think suits the purpose and explain to us why it should be included in the next dictionary. Be bold and let your imagination run free.

Here are some of mine: Nexting - This is when you text someone and you’re nagging them at the same time. Nag texting.

Dotpause - This word is for the little row of dots that you see when you start to type in a message, and your friend starts to type, and then you both erase your typing so that the other person can type. This one’s for you Kevin Buddaeus.

Vlock - This describes the sudden urge to put your body between your child’s vomit and your new carpet. I’ve put my hands out to catch my son’s vomit as he threw up, trying to protect the floor. It’s a parent thing.

Henopause - Farmers will understand this one. It’s a condition that older hens get when they stop laying eggs.

Astralglow - We’ve all felt this one. It’s the warm feeling left on a chair by another person sitting there before you.

Arcticblonde - This is my husband’s favorite as he’s sporting a head of hair that’s arctic blonde. It’s the new blonde, not grey, but arctic blonde.

If you have any new words that you feel should be in the dictionary, please add them in the comments.

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Writing | Reading | Etymology

New Words That Need To Be In the Dictionary

Vlock is one