Merriam-Webster vs. Webster
What's the Difference?
Merriam-Webster and Webster are both well-known publishers of dictionaries, but they have some key differences. Merriam-Webster is a modern American publisher that is known for its comprehensive and up-to-date dictionaries, while Webster refers to the original American lexicographer Noah Webster, who published the first American dictionary in 1828. While both publishers focus on providing accurate definitions and spellings of words, Merriam-Webster has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing language, while Webster's work remains a historical reference point in the development of American English dictionaries.
Comparison
| Attribute | Merriam-Webster | Webster |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Online dictionary and thesaurus | English-language dictionary |
| Founded | 1831 | 1828 |
| Owner | Merriam-Webster Inc. | Merriam-Webster Inc. |
| Headquarters | Springfield, Massachusetts | Springfield, Massachusetts |
| Language | English | English |
Further Detail
History
Merriam-Webster and Webster are both well-known names in the world of dictionaries. Merriam-Webster, founded in 1831, is the result of a merger between the G. & C. Merriam Company and the Webster dictionary publishers. The Merriam brothers acquired the rights to Noah Webster's dictionary in the 1840s, which led to the creation of the Merriam-Webster brand. On the other hand, Webster's dictionary, originally published in 1828 by Noah Webster, is one of the earliest and most influential American dictionaries. It laid the foundation for American English spelling and usage.
Content
When it comes to content, both Merriam-Webster and Webster offer comprehensive dictionaries that cover a wide range of words and definitions. Merriam-Webster's dictionaries are known for their clear and concise definitions, as well as their up-to-date language usage. They also include information on word origins, pronunciation, and usage examples. Webster's dictionaries, on the other hand, are known for their focus on American English and their historical significance. They often include archaic or obsolete words that reflect the language of the time when they were first published.
Accessibility
In terms of accessibility, Merriam-Webster has adapted to the digital age by offering online dictionaries and mobile apps that make it easy for users to look up words on the go. They also provide a variety of resources, such as word games and language quizzes, to engage users and help them improve their vocabulary. Webster's dictionaries, on the other hand, may not be as readily available online, but they are still widely used in print form in libraries and educational institutions. Some editions of Webster's dictionaries have been digitized and made available online, but they may not offer the same level of interactivity as Merriam-Webster's digital resources.
Reputation
Both Merriam-Webster and Webster have established reputations as authoritative sources of language information. Merriam-Webster is often cited in academic papers and used by students and professionals alike. Its name is synonymous with quality and accuracy in dictionary publishing. Webster's dictionaries, on the other hand, are considered classics in the field of lexicography. They are valued for their historical significance and their role in shaping American English. While some may view Webster's dictionaries as outdated compared to Merriam-Webster's modern offerings, they still hold a special place in the hearts of language enthusiasts.
Innovation
When it comes to innovation, Merriam-Webster has been at the forefront of incorporating new technologies into its dictionaries. In addition to its online and mobile resources, Merriam-Webster has also embraced social media platforms to engage with users and promote language learning. They regularly update their dictionaries to reflect changes in language usage and add new words that have entered the lexicon. Webster's dictionaries, on the other hand, may not be as quick to adapt to new technologies, but they continue to be valued for their traditional approach to lexicography and their focus on preserving the integrity of the English language.
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