Thu Sep 19 06:08:06 UTC 2024: ## Kiwi Politics and Te Reo Māori Make Their Mark on Oxford English Dictionary
The Oxford English Dictionary has added a new batch of words, including some unique to New Zealand, reflecting the evolving language landscape of the country.
One notable addition is **“waka jumper,”** a term used exclusively in New Zealand politics to describe a member of parliament who switches political parties during a parliamentary term. The dictionary traces the term back to 1999, reflecting its historical significance in the country’s political discourse.
The update also sees an increase in the inclusion of **te reo Māori** words, reflecting the growing use and acceptance of the language. Terms like **”kapa haka”** (a traditional Māori performance art) have been added, reflecting their frequent usage in media and wider society.
However, the addition of **”Aotearoan”**, a term sometimes used as an alternative to “New Zealander,” has sparked debate. While some view it as a positive step in acknowledging Māori language, others feel it distorts the language and prefer alternative terms.
University of Auckland linguist Dr Peter Keegan explains that the inclusion of these words reflects their widespread use and the evolving linguistic landscape of New Zealand.
The Oxford English Dictionary is updated approximately four times a year, capturing the changing nature of New Zealand society through the language used, highlighting both historical and contemporary aspects of the country. The inclusion of these words signifies a shift in New Zealand’s linguistic identity, embracing both its political and cultural nuances.
First Piper 