How do dictionaries decide what new words to add the dictionary each year?

There is no single organization that decides which new words are added to the dictionary. Different dictionaries are produced by different publishers, and each publisher has its own criteria for what words to add. Some of the factors that may be considered include:

* Frequency of use: How often is the word used? A word that is used frequently in a variety of contexts is more likely to be added to the dictionary than a word that is only used occasionally.

* Semantic value: How useful or meaningful is the word? A word that has clear meaning and can be used in a variety of ways is more likely to be added to the dictionary than a word that is vague or confusing.

* Distinctiveness: Is the word unique enough to warrant its own entry in the dictionary? A word that is synonymous with another word or that has a very similar meaning is less likely to be added to the dictionary than a word that is unique.

* Currency: Is the word currently in use? A word that is outdated or no longer relevant is less likely to be added to the dictionary than a word that is currently popular.

In addition to these factors, publishers may also consider the opinions of experts, such as lexicographers, linguists, and subject-matter specialists, when deciding which new words to add to the dictionary.

The process of adding new words to the dictionary is ongoing, and new words are being added all the time. As the English language continues to evolve, so too will the dictionaries that document it.

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