Exploring the Evolution of Language and Meaning

Language and meaning are constantly evolving as people adapt and redefine words based on usage rather than adhering strictly to traditional definitions. The discussion highlights that when enough individuals adopt a new meaning for a word, such as 'humbled' to signify feeling honored rather than defeated, that meaning can eventually be recognized as valid. Dictionary editors monitor these changes in language, reflecting society's usage trends, and will eventually include new meanings if they gain enough traction. This evolution can lead to the coexistence of multiple interpretations of a word, which may seem contradictory, but such phenomena are not uncommon in language; words can have dual meanings that diverge significantly. The case of 'humbled' illustrates a larger concept where linguistic shifts challenge the historical context of words, prompting individuals to reconcile their personal understanding with the new societal interpretations, ultimately enriching the complexity of language.