Susie Dent On the Wonders of the English Language (Part 1)
Intelligence Squared
Deep Dive
What is the origin of the word 'cataract' and how does it relate to the eye condition?
The word 'cataract' originates from the Latin word 'cataracta,' meaning 'waterfall' or 'portcullis.' In the context of the eye, it metaphorically describes the condition as a grating or barrier that slowly comes down, obscuring vision, much like a waterfall or portcullis.
What is the meaning of the word 'zwodder' and where does it come from?
'Zwodder' is a word from Somerset dialect that describes a drowsy, enjoyable state of slumberousness, often experienced when half-awake or half-asleep, especially in warm and dark conditions. It is associated with the 'dog days' of summer, a time of torpor and lethargy.
Why are the hottest days of summer referred to as 'dog days'?
The term 'dog days' refers to the hottest period of summer and is linked to Sirius, the Dog Star, which rises with the sun during this time in the Northern Hemisphere. The name has nothing to do with dogs seeking shade but is instead tied to the astronomical phenomenon of Sirius's appearance.
What inspired Susie Dent to write her debut crime novel, 'Guilty by Definition'?
Susie Dent was inspired to write 'Guilty by Definition' by her father, who always encouraged her to write fiction, and by her editor, who suggested a crime novel set in the 1930s in Oxford. Dent saw parallels between her work as a lexicographer and etymologist—digging for word origins—and the detective work in crime fiction. The novel also explores the darker side of Oxford and the motivations behind language.
How does the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) differ from other dictionaries?
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a historical dictionary that tracks the journey of words from their first recorded use to their current meanings. Unlike other dictionaries, once a word is added to the OED, it is never removed. The OED is also unique in its extensive use of citations from literature, media, and other sources to document word usage over time. It is considered the 'mother of all dictionaries' and is continuously updated, with new words added regularly.
What role do volunteers play in the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary?
Volunteers have historically played a crucial role in the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary by submitting evidence of word usage on slips of paper. These contributions, often from diverse and colorful individuals, helped build the dictionary's extensive citation database. Even today, an army of readers continues to search for earlier evidence of words, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the OED.
What is the significance of the term 'secretary' in the context of lexicography?
The term 'secretary' originally referred to someone who kept secrets or confidential documents. In the context of lexicography, it highlights the role of lexicographers as 'secretaries of English,' entrusted with preserving and documenting the language. This idea is central to the plot of 'Guilty by Definition,' where mysterious letters task the lexicographers with decoding hidden messages.
- Susie Dent's background as a lexicographer and etymologist
- Her debut crime novel, Guilty by Definition
- Reasons for writing fiction: her father's encouragement and her editor's persuasive strategy
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