Meh Makes Dictionary

“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.

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James Joyner
About James Joyner
James Joyner is Professor and Department Head of Security Studies at Marine Corps University's Command and Staff College. He's a former Army officer and Desert Storm veteran. Views expressed here are his own. Follow James on Twitter @DrJJoyner.

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  3. Dave Schuler says:

    Meh.

  4. rodney dill says:

    Meh too.

  5. odograph says:

    Being a word it will be less fun, won’t it?

  6. Steve Verdon says:

    Meh.

  7. sam says:

    Meh, aussi.

  8. G.A.Phillips says:

    meh-haw meh-haw…..

  9. rodney dill says:

    Just mehvelous

  10. FireWolf says:

    Look Meh! No Hands!