Should we all invent new words? The makers of the Oxford English Dictionary have announced the best examples from 2023 — but not everyone agrees with their choice.
Got no rizz? That's a definite beige flag
Should we all invent new words? The makers of the Oxford English Dictionary have announced the best examples from 2023 - but not everyone agrees with their choice.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">What's happening? </h2>
On Monday the Oxford English DictionaryA book with a big list of words and their meanings. (OED) named "rizz" as its word of the year. It is believed to be a shortening of "charismaA charm or attractiveness that can inspire others. " which became hugely popular on TikTok this year.
Aaround 5,400 new English words are created every year. Only about 20% of them, though, really catch on.1
Not surprisingly, many of them are invented by writers. These are known as "authorisms".
William ShakespeareAn English playwright and poet who is often called the greatest writer in the English language. came up with many brilliant words, including "swagger" and "bedazzledTo impress or confuse someone, especially with a striking appearance. ". Meanwhile, Geoffrey ChaucerSometimes referred to as the father of English poetry, he is best known for The Canterbury Tales. is responsible for "approach" and "universeEverything. Including all of time and space and its contents. ".
Should we all invent new words?
Yes! The English language changes all the time. New words help us to say new things and share new ideas.
No! We already have all the words we need - in fact, there are words that you will go your entire life without hearing or needing.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">Find out more </h2>
Dictionary - A book with a big list of words and their meanings.
Charisma - A charm or attractiveness that can inspire others.
William Shakespeare - An English playwright and poet who is often called the greatest writer in the English language.
Bedazzled - To impress or confuse someone, especially with a striking appearance.
Geoffrey Chaucer - Sometimes referred to as the father of English poetry, he is best known for The Canterbury Tales.
Universe - Everything. Including all of time and space and its contents.
Got no rizz? That’s a definite beige flag

Glossary
Dictionary - A book with a big list of words and their meanings.
Charisma - A charm or attractiveness that can inspire others.
William Shakespeare - An English playwright and poet who is often called the greatest writer in the English language.
Bedazzled - To impress or confuse someone, especially with a striking appearance.
Geoffrey Chaucer - Sometimes referred to as the father of English poetry, he is best known for The Canterbury Tales.
Universe - Everything. Including all of time and space and its contents.