According to the introduction, Word Spy <http://www.logophilia.com/WordSpy/> is devoted to newly coined words, existing words that are becoming popular again, and older words with new meanings. Appearing daily is a new word along with definition, citation, and related words. The Web site offers a search engine, an index of terms, and an archive of past words.
Word Spy allows you to search the database or browse through the index and archives. The index contains just the terms while the archives provide definition, citation, and related words. Both the index and archives are arranged alphabetically.
Rather than check the Web site each weekday, users can join the Word Spy mailing list. The word of the day will be sent to subscribers via e‐mail. This option is available under Subscription Info. Another option allows users to view terms selected randomly.
Some readers will recognize terms such as B2B, cybersquatting, and Webrarian while puzzling over B2B2C, Elvis year, and walk the cat back. Want to know what magalogue means? According to Word Spy, it’s defined as a product catalogue designed to resemble a magazine. Cited as an example of how the word is used is a quote that appeared in the New York Times. Related terms are listed below the citation. For this word, related terms include ad creep, barnumize, and thud factor.
There is a link to Tech Word Spy, a database of terms focusing on Windows and HTML technology. Some technical terms from Word Spy appear in this lexicon. The same functions ‐ such as a search engine and archive ‐ are available.
A shortcoming of the Web site is the lack of attributed quotations for all terms. Some terms have quotes along with the originating source, and some only have quotes, while others have none at all. For those words and phrases mentioned without sources, it gives the impression of an attempt to create the next buzzword.
If you want to impress people with your knowledge of the latest trends and slang, this Web site will get you started. Advertising and technology terms are abundant. Many of these terms tend to reflect popular culture and society, however short term. Not all words will become part of our everyday usage.
The design and layout of the Web site are simple and easy to navigate. Word aficionados would certainly find this site interesting. Students of marketing, society, and pop culture may find it helpful with their studies.
