Do you ever wonder how many words there are in the English language? Some say there might be around a million words, but do we really know the exact count?
The Second Edition of Oxford Dictionary recorded an entry of 171,476 words being used. On the other hand, Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged together with its 1993 Addenda Section noted a total of 470,000 words. So if we combine both numbers together, the sum would be 641,476 words.
But is that the exact count of words in the English language? The answer is no. The number of the recorded English words in the two dictionaries don’t really determine the number of words out there. However, one thing is certain: each year, between 800 and 1000 new words are added to the English dictionary.
Words vary. Some are simple and short. Some are long and complicated. But one thing is in common – words are powerful. They make up a sentence. They make up a story. They make up a language. And when it comes to learning a new language, words are important.
Well, did you know you can learn a new language by reading stories you love? Think about reading beloved childhood classic stories like Peter Pan in Italian or Winnie the Pooh in Spanish. The possibilities are endless, so get Beelinguapp now and discover the magic of learning a new language through reading.
On another note, care to know 14 very long words that you may or may not use in your life? Check out our collection below and let us know of your favorite long words!
1. Methionylthreonylthreonylglutaminylarginyl…isoleucine (189, 819 letters)
Methionylthreonylthreonylglutaminylarginyl…isoleucine is the chemical name for the protein of “titin” also known as “connectin.” The largest known protein that consists of 26, 926 amino acids is made up of 189, 819 letters and can take about three hours to pronounce.
2. Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis (45 letters)
Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis is a lung disease caused by the inhalation of fine silica or quartz dust. The term is also a synonym for the disease known as “silicosis.” Everett K. Smith coined the term in the late 1930s, but it is not currently used in real medical usage.
3. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (34 letters)
Oh, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! The word itself is the title for a famous song, sung by the great Mary Poppins. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious might closely rhyme with the word atrocious but it actually means quite the opposite. In fact, the word is used to describe something extraordinarily wonderful or it can be used to describe when you have nothing to say.
4. Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (30 letters)
Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism, also known as PPHP, is the name of a genetic disorder which causes short stature, round face, and short hand bones.
5. Antidisestablishmentarianism (28 letters)
The term antidisestablishmentarianism was coined in the 19th century in Great Britain.
The word was used to describe the withdrawal of state support particularly from the Anglican church. But now, antidisestablishmentarianism can be used to describe any opposition to the withdrawal or recognition from an established religion or church.
6. Honorificabilitudinitatibus (27 letters)
Another way of saying “with honorableness” is to say the word honorificabilitudinitatibus. The word is the longest word mentioned in one of Shakespeare’s plays called Love’s Labour’s Lost.
7. Dichlorodifluoromethane (23 letters)
Dichlorodifluoromethane is a colorless gas under the name Freon-12 and chlorofluorocarbon halomethane. The gas is used in aerosol sprays, in plastics, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
8. Floccinaucinihilipilification (29 letters)
The action of estimating something worthless and unimportant is known as floccinaucinihilipilification. According to records, the word has been used since 1741 and apparently coined by students of Eton College.
9. Incomprehensibilities (21 letters)
In the 1990s, the word incomprehensibilities was known to be the longest word “in common usage.” Incomprehensibilities is the plural form for the word incomprehensibility and is used to describe something that is difficult or impossible to understand.
10. Sesquipedalianism (17 letters)
Sesquipedalianism is the practice of using long words in speech or writing. A person who enjoys and appreciates using long words in either speech or writing is known as a sesquipedalian.
11. Aequeosalinocalcalinoceraceoaluminosocupreovitriolic (52 letters)
In the 17th century, Dr. Edward Strother coined the 52-letter word aequeosalinocalcalinoceraceoaluminosocupreovitriolic. The word is used to describe the spa waters in Bath, England.
12. Spectrophotofluorometrically (28 letters)
A spectrophotofluorometer is a device that measures how much light something emits. In a sentence, you can say “That piece was analyzed spectrophotofluorometrically.”
13. Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg (45 letters)
Flickr: Boston Public Library
Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg is a lake in Webster, Massachusetts. It is also known as Webster Lake or Lake Chaubunagungamaug. The lake’s name is said to have originated from an Algonquian Language meaning “fishing place at the boundaries – neutral meeting grounds.” Another amusing translation for the name of the lake is “You fish on your side. I’ll fish on my side, and no one shall fish in the middle.”
14. Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia (36 letters)
The social fear of long words is known as hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia. Although the 15-syllable phobia differs from person to person, it can have a negative impact on one's life. If you or someone you know has hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia, make sure to seek professional assistance to better manage symptoms and coping methods.
As a language enthusiast and expert with a deep understanding of linguistics, etymology, and language dynamics, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the exploration of the English language. My expertise is not only theoretical but also grounded in practical experience, as I have extensively studied dictionaries, language evolution, and the intricate nuances that make languages vibrant and ever-changing.
Now, diving into the article you've presented, the exploration of the English language's vastness and complexity is fascinating. The article touches upon several key concepts, each contributing to the richness of language:
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Word Count Variations: The article begins by addressing the uncertainty regarding the exact number of words in the English language. It references the Second Edition of the Oxford Dictionary, recording 171,476 words, and Webster’s Third New International Dictionary noting 470,000 words. This highlights the dynamic nature of language and the challenges in pinpointing an exact count.
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Annual Word Additions: The assertion that 800 to 1000 new words are added to the English dictionary each year emphasizes the language's adaptability and responsiveness to societal changes, technology, and cultural shifts. It underscores the living nature of language.
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Power of Words: The article rightly emphasizes the power of words. It highlights that words, regardless of their simplicity or complexity, collectively form sentences, stories, and languages. This reinforces the significance of words in communication and expression.
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Language Learning through Stories: A unique perspective is introduced, suggesting that learning a new language can be achieved by reading stories in that language. This idea promotes a practical and engaging approach to language acquisition, aligning with research that supports immersive learning experiences.
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Long Words and Their Significance: The article features a list of exceptionally long words, each with its own interesting backstory and meaning. These words, such as "Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis" or "Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia," showcase the diversity and creativity in language construction.
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Word Origin and Historical Context: Some words, like "Antidisestablishmentarianism," have historical origins, reflecting past societal and religious movements. Understanding such words requires delving into the historical context in which they emerged.
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Scientific and Technical Terms: Several long words, such as "Dichlorodifluoromethane," have specific technical or scientific applications. This reflects the adaptability of language to incorporate terms from various domains, contributing to its versatility.
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Unique Place Names: The inclusion of the lake name "Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg" highlights the diversity of language, even in geographical names. It illustrates how language is embedded in local culture and history.
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Phobia Related to Language: The article concludes with the mention of "Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia," a phobia related to long words. This touches on the psychological aspects of language and how it can impact individuals differently.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive view of the English language, encompassing its vastness, adaptability, historical roots, and even its impact on individuals' psychological well-being. It encourages readers to appreciate the linguistic tapestry that words weave in our daily lives.
