Should we start tracking word citations?

[mtrifiro]

Those of us who have a lexicography background are familiar with citation files used by those who create dictionaries. These are databases (originally, literally, file cabinets, but now electronic) where dictionary editors track word usage and then use these files to inform changes to the dictionary itself.

Some recent criticisms of the glossary have come from people who say it is an "impossible process" to arrive at canonical usage because there are so many different opinions. My typical retort is: "The English language is far more complicated than edge computing and somehow the folks at Merriam-Webster manage."

While my response is a tad flippant, it's nonetheless a solid point.

Some Resources:

How does a word get into a Merriam-Webster dictionary?

Finding just the right words. To the dictionary-maker, it's a profession filled with beauty, poetry - and more than a little controversy

Standardizing Terminology for Better Communication

Standardizing and Harmonizing Terminology

Standardization of Technical Terminology

Handbook of Terminology Management