New words added to Cambridge Dictionary

August 2, 2024

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This year, the Cambridge Dictionary added over 3,200 new words, terms, and phrases, including “the ick” and “chef’s kiss.”

“The ick” describes a sudden feeling of dislike or loss of attraction towards someone because of something they do. This term became popular online recently.

Another new addition is “IYKYK,” which stands for “if you know, you know.” It’s used to suggest shared knowledge or an inside joke that only certain people understand. “Chef’s kiss” also made the list; it describes something perfect or excellent.

Wendalyn Nichols, the publishing manager at Cambridge Dictionary, explained, “Language is dynamic, changing right along with technology and culture. We try to identify words and uses that have proven staying power.”

Gaming-related terms like “speedrun” and “side quest” have also been included. “Speedrun” now also means completing something very quickly, while “side quest” refers to an additional, less important activity done alongside a main one. Colin McIntosh, Cambridge Dictionary’s program manager, noted that these gaming terms are influencing everyday language.

These new words evolve with technology, culture, and trends, making dictionaries more relevant for today’s world.

Article written by Milli Banbury

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research and writing.

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

When the tide went out at the beach, Lina and her grandfather walked across the sand. Lina picked up a smooth shell and held it to her ear. Her grandfather laughed and said the shell could not really sing, but it might still remind her of the sea. A cold wind moved over the rocks, and Lina tucked her hands into her jacket pockets. Before they left, she built a small tower from stones near the dunes.

Why does Lina tuck her hands into her jacket pockets?

She was hiding a shell from her grandfather. She wanted to keep her hands warm. She was carrying stones to the dunes. She had found a secret map in the sand.