Global Recognition for Nigerian English as Japa, Eba, Janded, Suya others enter Oxford Dictionary Lexicon Development

Oxford-dictionary-include-nigerian-words

By Olawale Lamina

Nigerian commonly spoken words have gained wider traction with the Oxford English Dictionary-OED adding no fewer than 22 locally used words and expressions in its latest update, affirming the global influence of nation’s peculiar English.

Announcement of the new words entries was disclosed by Kingsley Ugwuanyi, linguist, lexicographer and a Nigerian English consultant to the OED, via his official LinkedIn account.

The newly added words now adorning the latest version of the Oxford Dictionary exemplified the country’s social dynamics, vibrant culture, language, which mainly came from Pidgin English, urban slangs, and traditional expressions common in major cities of the country’s diverse ethnic composition, inspiring general understanding over the years.

In making the announcement, an excited Ugwuanyi said: “I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) Oxford Languages | OUP has officially published its latest updates, featuring an amazing collection of Nigerian English words that beautifully reflect Nigeria’s culture, creativity, and the unique ways we express ourselves as Nigerians.

“This time, I not only drafted most of the words but also had the incredible opportunity to provide their pronunciations! So, when you explore the OED online and click on the pronunciations, you’ll hear my voice bringing these words to life.”

The complete list of the newly added Nigerian words, along with links to their definitions on the OED website includes:

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED), renowned as one of the most authoritative references for the English language, regularly updates its entries to capture the evolving nature of language and global linguistic trends.

These updates aim to reflect the cultural, social, and creative influences that shape how English is used around the world.