Getting HuReq in the Dictionary
How new words become official—and how you can help.
How Words Enter the Dictionary
Contrary to popular belief, dictionaries don't decide which words are "real." They document words that are already being used. Their job is descriptive, not prescriptive.
For a word to be added to major dictionaries like Oxford English Dictionary or Merriam-Webster, lexicographers look for:
Widespread Usage
The word must be used by many people across different contexts—not just in one community or by one author.
Sustained Usage
The word needs staying power. Dictionaries wait to see if a word persists over years, not just weeks.
Written Evidence
Published uses in books, articles, newspapers, and reputable websites carry the most weight.
Clear Meaning
The word must have a consistent, understood definition that fills a gap in the language.
How You Can Help Make HuReq Official
Use It in Published Writing
Write blog posts, articles, LinkedIn posts, or even books that use HuReq naturally. Published written evidence is what lexicographers look for most.
Use It on Social Media
Tweet, post on LinkedIn, discuss on Reddit. Social media usage is increasingly tracked by dictionary editors. Use #HuReq to make it searchable.
Use It in Conversation
The more it's spoken, the more natural it becomes. Use HuReq in meetings, interviews, podcasts, and everyday talk.
Suggest It to Dictionaries
Some dictionaries accept word suggestions. While they won't add a word just because it's suggested, it can put HuReq on their radar.
Be Patient
Words typically need years of documented usage before dictionary inclusion. "Selfie" took about 10 years; "COVID-19" was fast-tracked due to global significance. Our job is to keep using HuReq consistently.
How Long Does It Take?
First used early 2000s, added to Oxford in 2013
Used from 1998, added to dictionaries in 2006
Fast-tracked due to global significance
Japanese origin, added to Oxford in 2013
HuReq fills a clear gap in our vocabulary for the AI age. With sustained use, it has a real chance of becoming official.
Start Contributing Today
Every use of HuReq—written or spoken—brings us closer to making it official.