lexicographer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2Formal; Academic; Technical
Quick answer
What does “lexicographer” mean?
A person who compiles, writes, or edits dictionaries.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who compiles, writes, or edits dictionaries.
A specialist in the theory and practice of dictionary-making, concerned with the selection, definition, etymology, pronunciation, and usage of words. The role involves deep linguistic analysis and editorial judgement.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The spelling is identical in both varieties.
Connotations
Carries the same scholarly, somewhat specialised connotation in both cultures. Often associated with historical figures like Dr. Samuel Johnson or Noah Webster.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and technical in both varieties; not a word in everyday conversation.
Grammar
How to Use “lexicographer” in a Sentence
lexicographer at [publisher/institution]lexicographer for [project/dictionary]lexicographer specialising in [field/period]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lexicographer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She decided to lexicograph the regional dialect.
- He has spent years lexicographing slang terms for the new edition.
American English
- The team worked to lexicograph the technical terminology.
- She is lexicographing the corpus data for the digital dictionary.
adverb
British English
- The entry was compiled lexicographically.
- The terms were organised lexicographically rather than thematically.
American English
- The team worked lexicographically on the new definitions.
- The data was analysed lexicographically.
adjective
British English
- The lexicographic principles were rigorously applied.
- He has impressive lexicographic expertise.
American English
- The project requires a strong lexicographic background.
- They discussed various lexicographic approaches.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Common in linguistics, philology, and publishing studies. Used to describe historical and contemporary figures in the field.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Most non-specialists would not use the term.
Technical
Standard term within lexicography, publishing, and academic linguistics to denote the profession.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lexicographer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “lexicographer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lexicographer”
- Mispronouncing it as 'lexi-co-grapher' (incorrect syllable stress). The primary stress is on the third syllable: '-COG-'.
- Confusing with 'lexicologist' (one who studies words and their relationships) or 'philologist' (one who studies historical language and texts).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A linguist studies language as a system (its structure, history, acquisition). A lexicographer is a specialist who applies linguistic knowledge to the practical task of writing and editing dictionaries.
Most modern lexicographers see their role as describing how language is actually used, not prescribing rules. They record common usage, even for non-standard or informal words.
No, it is a niche profession. Most lexicographers work for dictionary publishers, universities, or research projects. The number of professional roles is relatively small.
Key skills include analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, research ability, a strong grasp of linguistics (especially semantics and etymology), and clear, concise writing.
A person who compiles, writes, or edits dictionaries.
Lexicographer is usually formal; academic; technical in register.
Lexicographer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlek.sɪˈkɒɡ.rə.fər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌlek.səˈkɑː.ɡrə.fɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A walking dictionary (informal, a person with a vast vocabulary, not necessarily a lexicographer).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'LEXICON' (a dictionary) + 'GRAPHER' (someone who writes/records). A lexicographer *graphs* (writes) the *lexicon*.
Conceptual Metaphor
LANGUAGE AS A MAP; the lexicographer is a CARTOGRAPHER of words.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the primary role of a lexicographer?