Word by Word

The Secret Life of Dictionaries

By: Kory Stamper

Narrated by: Kory Stamper

Length: 9 hrs and 48 mins

Publisher's summary

Brimming with intelligence and personality, a vastly entertaining account of how dictionaries are made - a must-listen for word mavens.

While most of us might take dictionaries for granted, the process of writing them is in fact as lively and dynamic as language itself. With sharp wit and irreverence, Kory Stamper cracks open the complex, obsessive world of lexicography - from the agonizing decisions about what and how to define to the knotty questions of usage in an ever-changing language. She explains why small words are the most difficult to define (have you ever tried to define is?), how it can take nine months to define a single word, and how our biases about language and pronunciation can have tremendous social influence. Throughout, Stamper brings to life the hallowed halls (and highly idiosyncratic cubicles) of Merriam-Webster, a world inhabited by quirky, erudite individuals who quietly shape the way we communicate. A sure delight for all lovers of words, Word by Word might also quietly improve listeners' grasp and use of the English language.

©2017 Kory Stamper (P)2017 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"[M]arvelous insight into the messy world behind the tidy definitions on the page...." (Bridget Thoreson, Booklist)

So much fun!

All of the sudden I find myself asking everyone to repeat themselves. It's amazing to think about all the words that we take for granted.

If you love the English language listen to this.

A heartfelt and entertaining listen to someone clearly passionate about their field. Wish there were a dozen more chapters of quirks and interesting tidbits.

FASCINATING!

Who knew words could be so interesting! Well written, entertaining, and the narration is easy listening. I highly recommend this title. You will be surprised at the amount of thought, consideration, and research dedicated to each dictionary entry.

Wanted to read--but still surprised how good it is

I enjoyed this book so much I am buying it for others. I learned a lot of interesting history and even techniques I plan to use to help people I train become better at their 'craft'. She wove in how the dictionary/lexicographer handles politically touchy issues and, I think, handled them in a way that most on both sides of the aisle/altar will appreciate. A bit more NC-17 than I would have expected from a book about the dictionary but if the word fits, use it!

Simply Wonderful

A skillfully relayed tale of one of the most under appreciated texts in American history. Kory Stamper is a wonderful orator and the story itself is informative and engaging. Highly recommend. Made me want to become a lexicographer!

You should infer my implication.

A very interesting story of how dictionaries come to be and fascinating explanation of changes.

Kory should narrate more Audible books!

What made the experience of listening to Word by Word the most enjoyable?

I loved the author's, ( Kory Stamper), modulation and lilt and energy and explanations and rants about words like "irregardless" and "it's/its" and full throttle pronunciations and expertise! She wasn't arrogant, she spoke to the listener as if she were a friend explaining her chosen field.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Word by Word?

Her explanation about how people who apply and are lucky enough to get a job like hers chose it so they never have to talk to people!!! More than ever, people want that!!! Then she explained why SHE was chosen to respond to grievances.

Have you listened to any of Kory Stamper’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have NEVER heard such an enthusiastic reader. I wish she narrated more books! ANY BOOKS!!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I think I liked her honesty about coming from Colorado and having to adjust to the Mid-Atlantic pronunciations and jargon.

Any additional comments?

As a long ago linguistics minor...I always learned that all we have to do is make ourselves understood even if we don't spell perfectly. But it is an unappreciated art to GET IT RIGHT!!!

What a wonderful book!

Unexpected, funny, informative, provocative. I can't quite believe that I wanted a book on this topic to be longer, but I most definitely did. Please write more, Kory Stamper.

Excellent Words!

I love words and this book is a completely fun listen thanks to the author/reader. Who knew that making a dictionary is so much grueling work? And that it is also interesting? Stamper's love of her work shines throughout this very interesting book.
Take a listen and learn some new words.

A word nerd's delight

I loved this book. Kory is a great narrator and she does a fantastic job of using anecdotes to describe working as a lexicographer.