![]() Much like a blacksmith twisting and molding iron or steel to fashion a new tool, writers do the same with words to create thoughts and ideas. When we think of this classic trade, the idea of forging something new from bars of metal is top of mind. If we break it down into word and smithing, we quickly see how this word became synonymous with people who work in words to create new things.Īccording to Encyclopedia Britannica, smithing is the act of doing metalwork for fabrication or repair. Let’s dig a little deeper into the etiology of wordsmithing. This source explains that a wordsmith has the ability to “effortlessly string words together” to create smiles, laughter or admiration and to “make up bullshit on the spot.” Well, depending on the project, this definition is fitting too. Surprisingly, this definition is pretty accurate with a side of humor. Excellent! So every time we come up with new expressions and phrases in our writing, we’re being wordsmiths. Collins Dictionary says…Ī wordsmith is a person, especially a professional writer, who both coins new words and uses language skillfully. Cambridge Dictionary says…Ī wordsmith is someone who “has skill using words, especially in writing.” This definition makes me think great orators would be included alongside writers, since both are pros at word usage. The Merriam-Webster dictionary says this term was first used in 1873. Based on this definition, I think any writer who hones their craft and makes a living from wordplay could be called a wordsmith. What is a wordsmith? Merriam-Webster says…Ī wordsmith is someone who works with words, or an especially skilled writer.
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