Funny you should ask! The free online Oxford English Dictionary (OED) can let you know! Use this link to check out their fun little tool that will show you what word became "OED official" the year you were born: https://www.oed.com/discover/birthday-words

Hey there, Hawkeye Word Nerds! Now that I have your attention...

Did you know the University of Iowa Libraries has the full Oxford English Dictionary, in all of its 20 volume glory on our shelves? It's in The Perch. Have a look the next time you're in the Main Library.

But even more excitingly, we also have the full version of the OED online through a subscription database (use your HawkID to login). Have fun exploring it or challenge yourself to learn how to make the most of it with their series of "Getting Started" videos.

For instructors: If you are interested in using the OED for an assignment or activity with your students, please feel welcome to be in touch with your librarian to develop a lesson plan. You may also be interested in viewing how others have integrated the OED into their academic work.