2) A reference for people from the most highly respected writers to the common man. This reference book, or more commonly known as dictionary, lists a large selection of proper words from the specified language and defines them.
Usually refering to the print version of a dictionary pioneered by Webster himself. Before his time people spelled words any damn way they choose to.
Too often people think that Webster's has not entered the digital age. This is simply untrue. Look Up Merriam-Webster and you will find thier site which is free. While it is true that the dictionary there is by no means complete, it is authoritative and will get you through college. When you can't find a word there of course turn to urbandictionary.com
Me: Webster's doesn't have a definition for Punctum.
My Girl: Probably because punctum isn't even a damn word and your proffessor just made it up to sound cool.
The first word to the intro sentence to which every high school and college paper begins.
Also, the first word to the intro sentence that makes English teachers (and every other type of teacher) toss out a collective groan of agony.
Additional social aspect of the word:
One example of the unoriginal and collectively sub-par way in which students go about serious thought and research in our schools. And one of the signs that our educational system needs some revamping.
“Webster’s Ninth international dictionary defines :any ass word here: as…”
Also:
If I see another paper that begins, “Webster’s Ninth international dictionary defines :any ass word here: as…” I’m going to shove No Child Left Behind up GWB’s A**!