An American Dictionary of the English Language: Noah Webster and His Impact on Spelling

At the beginning of the 19th century, the United States found itself in a unique position: a young nation carving out its own identity while still tied to its British roots. One man, Noah Webster, was at the forefront of a significant endeavor that would shape American English as we know it today – his dictionary. In this article, we will explore who Noah Webster was and how he changed American spelling, and why these changes were necessary and impactful.

Who Was Noah Webster?

Noah Webster (1758-1843) was more than just a lexicographer; he was a cultural icon, printer, and educator. Born in Connecticut, Webster dedicated his life to the propagation of knowledge and the standardization of the English language in America. Educated at Yale University, he became a schoolmaster before transitioning into law and then academia. His passion for education and language led him to create an American version of the English language, one that was distinct and uniquely American.

The Backdrop of Early 19th Century America

The early 19th century was a tumultuous time in U.S. history, characterized by growing nationalistic sentiments and a desire for independence from Britain. This period was marked by strained relations between the two countries, often referred to as the Long Retreat during which American schools were largely free from British influences. It was in this atmosphere of rebellion against British cultural dominance that Noah Webster saw an opportunity to shape the language of a new nation.

Webster believed that standardizing the American English language would go hand in hand with national unity and pride. He aimed to create a dictionary that would reflect American culture and values, distinct from the British orthography that had been imposed by the colonizers.

Noah Webster’s Contributions to American Spelling

Webster’s most famous work, the "An American Dictionary of the English Language" published in 1828, not only defined words but also fundamentally altered American spelling conventions. Among the changes he advocated were:

Elimination of silent letters in words like "knight" and "gnome" (changed to "night" and "gnome")

Removing redundant u in colour (changed to "color")

Using -ing rather than -ine (e.g., "talking" instead of "talkinge")

Replacing -re endings with -er in words like "centre" (changed to "center")

Adopting American words where no semantic equivalent existed in British English (e.g., "volcano" instead of "volcanus")

International Reception and Adaptation of Webster’s Standards

While Webster's work was primarily aimed at solidifying American identity, it found international acknowledgment, extending its influence beyond the United States. Some of these changes were adopted by the British themselves, often without realizing the origins.

Canadian spelling, influenced by American standards, also began to diverge more from British norms. This reflects the broader trend of linguistic independence in the North American continent.

Interestingly, despite some changes being adopted, the majority of British spellings remained untouched, preserving many of the British idiosyncrasies that distinguish their language from American English. Today, British and American spelling coexist as unique forms of the English language, each with its own cultural significance.

Conclusion

Noah Webster's impact on American spelling remains unparalleled. His efforts not only standardized the language for American education but also instilled a sense of national pride and unity. It is through his dictionary that the American version of English was crystallized, setting it on a distinct path from its British counterpart. Despite variations and debates over the years, the legacy of Webster's work continues to shape the future of the English language in America and beyond.