Meh Makes Dictionary

James Joyner · Monday, November 17, 2008 · 10 comments

“Meh,” an indicator of indifference, has made the dictionary.

“Meh”, a word which indicates a lack of interest or enthusiasm, became the latest addition to the Collins English Dictionary on Monday. The word, which beat hundreds of other suggestions from members of the public, will feature in the 30th anniversary edition of the dictionary, which is to be published next year.

Though the word apparently originates from North America, Collins said it was now widely used on the Internet, and was increasingly seen in British spoken English. The dictionary entry for “meh” will say it can be used as an interjection to indicate indifference or boredom, as an adjective to describe something as boring or mediocre, or to show an individual is apathetic or unimpressed.

The word was popularised by the US comedy animation series “The Simpsons”, where characters Bart and Lisa use it to express indifference when their father Homer suggests a day trip.

Meh. Better than “frenemy,” which was apparently one of the leading contenders.