New Words Added to Oxford English Dictionary
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has recently expanded its lexicon with the addition of several intriguing words, including “gigil,” a Tagalog term that captures the overwhelming urge to squeeze something adorable. This update highlights the growing trend of incorporating untranslatable words from various languages into English. Alongside gigil, the OED has also welcomed terms from Singapore and Malaysia, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of these regions.
Understanding Gigil: A Unique Emotion
Gigil, pronounced “ghee-gill,” is a term that encapsulates a powerful emotional response. It describes the intense feeling that compels individuals to clench their fists, grit their teeth, and pinch or squeeze something they find irresistibly cute. This word fills a gap in the English language, providing speakers with a specific term for a common yet complex feeling. The OED’s inclusion of gigil emphasizes the importance of recognizing and naming emotions that may not have direct translations in English.
In addition to gigil, the OED has also added “alamak,” a colloquial expression from Singapore and Malaysia that conveys surprise or outrage. These additions reflect the dictionary’s commitment to capturing the nuances of language and emotion across different cultures.
Food Words Reflecting Cultural Richness
The latest update from the OED also features a variety of food-related terms from Singapore and Malaysia, highlighting the culinary passions of these nations. Among the newly added words are “kaya toast,” a beloved breakfast dish consisting of toasted bread spread with a sweet coconut jam, and “fish head curry,” a flavorful dish that merges Chinese and South Indian culinary traditions. Another addition, “steamboat,” refers to a communal dining experience where thinly sliced meats and vegetables are cooked in a simmering broth.
These food terms not only enrich the English language but also serve as a testament to the diverse culinary heritage of Southeast Asia. The OED notes that the prevalence of these food-related words showcases the cultural significance of cuisine in these regions. Additionally, the term “tapau,” derived from Mandarin and Cantonese, refers to the practice of packaging food for takeaway, further emphasizing the importance of food in everyday life.
Expanding the Philippine Lexicon
The OED’s latest update also includes several words from the Philippines, reflecting the country’s vibrant culture. Among these is “videoke,” a local adaptation of karaoke that features a scoring system, making it a popular pastime. Another addition is “salakot,” a traditional wide-brimmed hat commonly worn by farmers in the Philippines. These words highlight the unique aspects of Filipino culture and lifestyle.
Furthermore, the OED has recognized idiosyncratic uses of existing English words, such as “terror,” which can describe a strict or demanding teacher in the Philippine context. This demonstrates how language evolves and adapts to reflect local customs and experiences.
The OED’s Ongoing Evolution
The Oxford English Dictionary, with over 600,000 entries, is one of the most comprehensive dictionaries in the English-speaking world. Its editors continually evaluate thousands of new word suggestions each year, sourced from their own reading, crowdsourcing efforts, and language database analyses. The recent update also includes contributions from South Africa and Ireland, showcasing the OED’s commitment to capturing the dynamic nature of language across different cultures and regions.
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