Macquarie Dictionary

or

Should these words go in the Macquarie Dictionary?

We are always on the lookout for new, emerging and interesting words to add to the Macquarie Dictionary. In a time of global instant communication, these words are popping up faster and in vaster quantities than ever before.

To earn a place in the dictionary however, a word has to prove that the community at large accepts it. That is to say, it has to turn up a number of times in a number of different contexts over a period of time. We find these mainly by reading – books, newspapers, the internet – and listening – radio, TV, people chatting.

We’d like to highlight some of the fun, creative and intriguing submissions we receive from you, the reader. Let us know if you know any others and what you think of these ones.

See other words suggested to the Macquarie Dictionary here.

 

 

cattywampus messed up

hunty a term of endearment between friends.

sororal relating to sisters. Complementary to fraternal.

kiddyback when one child piggybacks another child.

woke someone who is aware of social issues, biases that might not be based on their own background.

nuraghe a type of ancient megalithic edifice found in Sardinia.

spit hood a hood put on juveniles in correctional facilities to stop them spitting on staff. Colloquial for 'safety hood'.

See other words suggested to the Macquarie Dictionary here.

Leave a Comment

Featured Articles