Monday, April 18th, 2011...3:30 pm OMG in the OED! LOL The
Oxford English Dictionary (OED) calls itself “the definitive
record of the English Language.” Unlike standard dictonaries,
which have current meanings and spellings of words, the OED is a
historical dictionary. The OED defines current words, but also
traces the history of words through real examples. Think quotes
and examples (3 million in all) from literature to film to
cookbooks. The print version of OED is a huge text (20 volumes)
and has its own shelf and stand in the library. The OED recently
launched an online version. Every three months the OED reveals
its revisions, which may include new words, new useage, or new
examples. Some surprising new entries: LOL, int. and n.,
Originally and chiefly in the language of electronic
communications: ‘ha ha!’; used to draw attention to a joke or
humorous statement, or to express amusement OMG, int. (and n.)
Expressing astonishment, excitement, embarrassment, etc.: ‘oh my
God!’ muffin top, n,: slang. A roll