DAVE Wilton, author of 'Word Myths: Debunking Linguistic Urban Legends,' said it's difficult to draw conclusions about trends in society with just a handful of new words.

'It's also an editorial decision and reflects what the (dictionary) editors deemed important that year,' Wilton said.

'Most of these words have been around for a while but for some reason they grabbed the attention of editors this time.' Researchers often keep track of words over many years. One to watch: prepone.

The word is commonly used in India among English-speaking Indians and refers to the act of arranging for an event to take place earlier than originally planned - the opposite of postpone.

'Prepone didn't make it this time,' Mr Morse said. 'But we know about it.' -- AP