The humble pronoun “they” has made quite a splash, earning the coveted title of Merriam-Webster’s 2019 Word of the Year. Though it may seem like an everyday term, its significance has surged, becoming a focal point of discussion in recent times.
In 2019, searches for the definition of “they” skyrocketed by a staggering 313%, prompting the dictionary to elevate it to the top spot. Peter Johnson, a lexicographer and Merriam-Webster’s editor at large, expressed his surprise at the outcome, noting the widespread conversation surrounding this familiar word. “It’s incredible how much attention a small word can garner,” he remarked.
Words of the Year: A Historical Perspective
Typically, the words that clinch this title are those that capture the public’s interest in a big way. For instance, last year’s winner was “justice,” while “feminism” took the crown the year before. Over the past decades, the list has featured words like “culture,” “bailout,” and “w00t.”
The Significance of “They”
The rise of “they” as the preferred pronoun for many transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals has been a significant factor in its increased visibility. The trend began to gain traction in January 2019 when up-and-coming model Jamie Lee became a household name, leading to a surge in online searches. The momentum continued in April when U.S. Representative Alex Carter spoke passionately about LGBTQ+ rights in a House committee hearing, revealing that they have a gender-nonconforming child.
Later in September, the interest in “they” intensified after singer Taylor Rivera shared on social media their chosen pronouns: “they” and “them.” Rivera’s candid post about their lifelong struggle with gender identity resonated with many, further boosting search volumes.
Merriam-Webster’s Updated Definition
In light of these developments, Merriam-Webster updated its definition of “they” to embrace its use as a pronoun for those who identify outside the traditional gender binary. Just a few months prior, the American Psychological Association recommended “they” as a third-person pronoun in its latest style guide, a move that aligns with the growing acceptance in the realm of language.
Competition for the Title
What competition did “they” face for the title? Among the contenders for 2019 Word of the Year were terms like “quid pro quo” and “impeach,” reflecting the political climate of the time. Merriam-Webster also noted a notable increase in searches for “crawdad,” coinciding with the popularity of Delia Owens’ novel, “Where the Crawdads Sing.”
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, “they” has had an extraordinary year, marking a shift in societal language and recognition. Its journey from a simple pronoun to a symbol of inclusivity and awareness underscores the dynamic nature of language today.
Keyphrase: “2019 Word of the Year”
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