where can you apply for word entry into the dictionary?

Answer 1

if it's in wikipedia,just put it in.

Answer 2

You would have to do more than apply. Dictionary entries are approved only by the committee of the Oxford English Dictionary and several people have submitted words for approval only to have them turned down. Even though a new, contrived word may seem legitimate before it can be classed as a 'new' word it has to be in common parlance or use for a period of time. For example the word 'Internet' is now a recognised word which no-one had heard twenty five years ago but is now universally recognised. Similar generic words, such as 'Hoover', which originally was a vacuum cleaner brand name have now become accepted as a word. (IE 'I will hoover the carpet.' , the word 'hoover' an accepted verb even though you may use any other cleaner to 'hoover' the carpet.)

Several eminent people have invented words which are ;'real' but not accepted. I even just thopught of one 'polypresence' meaning a gathering of many people, but as it's not in common use, even though it makes perfect sense, it cannot be entered.

If you feel that you have a valid word then contact Oxford University Press at

Oxford University Press
Great Clarendon Street
Oxford
OX2 6DP
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]


Please note that words cannot be patented or royalties claimed for their entry. Since they have to be in common use it is not easy to prove ownership.