Whoops Word’s Favourite Dictionaries
Is having a top three favourite dictionaries a major word-nerd thing? Yes, dear reader, it really is. A decent dictionary is an invaluable tool for any proofreader or editor. Language progressively changes and evolves with a reliable consistency that should prompt everyone to reevaluate their spelling and word use. Lexicology is truly fascinating! But I digress. Having a tried and trustworthy source for all things spelling and meaning is precious to anyone looking to create a good written impression (like people trying to write a job application to blow a hiring manager away). So, no more gatekeeping. Whoops Word is revealing the dictionaries we use for different dialects.
Yes, you read that right. English has many different dialects, dear reader. And knowing which dictionary is the gold standard for any given dialect will save you from looking like an unintelligent weirdo when writing applications for businesses that are based in different countries from those in which you grew up. Being able to spell appropriately across dialects highlights your intelligence, mental agility, and attention to detail. These are characteristics that are desirable in… well, any job, really.
So, without further ado, here are Whoops Word’s favourite dictionaries. Click on the links to check out the online versions for yourself. Who knows... You might learn a thing or two!
The Macquarie English Dictionary
This is the dictionary I used in school to learn English here in Australia, and there’s definitely some sentimental value associated with that (*wipes nostalgic tears from eyes*).
The Macquarie English Dictionary is considered the gold-standard authority for Australian English. This dictionary stands above all others in Australia as a resource created by Australians for Australians, reflecting a fascinating contemporary take on the language. This lovely tome also holds high esteem amongst our New Zealand neighbours.
The first edition was published in 1981 and has been available (complete with regular revisions and updates) online since 2003. The Macquarie Dictionary provides comprehensive, up-to-date definitions, pronunciation guides, and etymology for hundreds of thousands of words.
The Oxford English Dictionary
While the Macquarie English Dictionary provides a modern and geographically specific interpretation of the English language, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) provides a more historical catalogue of British English.
Naturally, as one of the powerhouses in the world of the written word, the OED boasts the most complete record of English. In fact, the OED contains the definitions and historical story of over 500,000 words. You can expect to find a bountiful explanation of words from a variety of sources throughout the English-speaking world as far back as the 11th century. Make no mistake, though, you will still find the present-day meaning of words, too.
As a word nerd who also happens to love history, I fear you shall have to pry this dictionary from my cold, dead hands.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary
As with most things in America, bigger is better. And the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is staffed by the largest team of lexicographers in North America (and is therefore the best dictionary)!
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary is also a historic resource, with its first dictionary being published as far back as 1847. Of course, like any decent pedagogical resource, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary has undergone self-censorship and improvement throughout its evolution. Traditionally, with each edition published, revision and editorial work had already begun for the next edition. No wonder it's America’s most trusted authority on the English language.
