Read the full definition. Because some words have multiple meanings, it is critical to know all possible uses of the word prior to writing the explanation and expressing your thoughts.
Research the etymology of the word. Because language is an ever-changing element of culture, knowing the history of the word will give you sufficient information to detail how the word developed into its current use.
Explain the cultural use of the word today. This is the most critical piece of the annotation. Although knowing the strict definitions and history of a word are helpful, those two elements are not enough to understand the cultural meaning of a word. For example, the words "navel" and "belly button" mean the same thing, but English speakers are more likely to use the word "navel" in a more formal environment.
State your opinion about the definition---past, present and likely future. This is another key piece of the annotation. Express your opinion about the definition---how thorough and correct it is. Add any additional thoughts about edits or changes to improve the definition. Project the likely future use of the word including its possible increased or decreased use.