language

The R-word was originally used as a medical term, but eventually became a word used to belittle people with cognitive disabilities. The word gradually fell out of use, but advocates like Hartman see a disturbing trend in its unchecked usage.

Speech pathologists offer parents real-world advice on how to incorporate a second language with their kids at home — and demystify a misconception about bilingualism.

What words will be buzzing about in the global health and development hive in the year ahead? Our experts have nominations for your consideration.

New terms — like LatinX — are often pushed by activists to promote a more equitable world. But linguist John McWhorter says trying to enforce new words to speed up social change tends to backfire.

The dictionary publisher's guidance on the practice has people riled up. Grammarians say the made-up rule is one big waste of time. Not everyone is ready to let it go.

New research shows that a majority of Indigenous languages in America are endangered. NPR's Scott Detrow speaks with Native American language preservationist Alaina Tahlate.

The radio program "Caló: A Borderlands Dialect" features words and phrases from the dialect of Caló, which originated in Europe and made its way to the Southwest. Host Oscar Rodriguez discusses the history and meaning of the words, and why it's important to recognize their heritage.

Are there words and phrases that are no longer acceptable or off-limits in the workplace? What happens if you're unaware that you're using them? It's not always a simple right or wrong, and people might not agree on what they are.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary set out recently to document some of these words on Twitter, and was flooded with responses from people offering their own.

After we published our list of terms likely to loom large in this year's vocabulary, readers submitted their own nominations. Here's a sampling.