description David Skinner Overview
David Skinner is an American writer and lexicographer best known for The Story of Ain't: America, Its Language, and the Most Controversial Dictionary Ever Published. The 2010 book examines the history and public reception of Webster's Third New International Dictionary, especially its treatment of disputed usage and nonstandard forms. Skinner presents the dictionary debate as a conflict over how American English should be described and judged.
help David Skinner FAQ
What is David Skinner’s The Story of Ain’t about?
It is a 2010 history of Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, published in 1961. Skinner examines why its descriptive approach to American English provoked such a strong public backlash.
Why was Webster’s Third dictionary controversial?
Webster’s Third recorded actual usage instead of prescribing only formal or traditional forms. Critics objected to entries and definitions that appeared to legitimize disputed words such as “ain’t.”
Was David Skinner involved with the American Heritage Dictionary?
Yes. Skinner has written that the project began after he was invited to join the usage panel of the American Heritage Dictionary.
Is David Skinner’s book a dictionary or a work of literary history?
The Story of Ain’t is nonfiction history and cultural criticism, not a replacement dictionary. Its subject is the people, editorial decisions, and language debate surrounding the 1961 Webster’s Third.
explore Explore More
Similar to David Skinner
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
