What Makes a Word "Real"?

Explore the fascinating world of language evolution in this 17-minute TED talk by language historian Anne Curzan. Delve into the intriguing question of what makes a word "real" and examine the role of slang words like 'hangry,' 'defriend,' and 'adorkable' in filling crucial meaning gaps in the English language. Discover the human element behind dictionary creation and the constant decision-making process involved in selecting which words make it into these authoritative texts. Learn about the concept of "word of the year," the Lake Superior State University's unique approach to language, and the Usage Ballot. Gain insights into the dynamic nature of language and the ongoing debate surrounding word legitimacy in this engaging and informative presentation.