Self reference in word definitions

TL;DR

This paper studies the circular structure of dictionary definitions by analyzing the graph of definitional relations, identifying core loops, and exploring their implications for semantic units and language evolution.

Contribution

It introduces a graph-based analysis of dictionary definitions, classifies definitional loops by length, and links semantic clusters to language development.

Findings

Definitional loops can be classified by length.

Breaking long loops reveals semantic clusters.

Words in clusters tend to be introduced at similar times.

Abstract

Dictionaries are inherently circular in nature. A given word is linked to a set of alternative words (the definition) which in turn point to further descendants. Iterating through definitions in this way, one typically finds that definitions loop back upon themselves. The graph formed by such definitional relations is our object of study. By eliminating those links which are not in loops, we arrive at a core subgraph of highly connected nodes. We observe that definitional loops are conveniently classified by length, with longer loops usually emerging from semantic misinterpretation. By breaking the long loops in the graph of the dictionary, we arrive at a set of disconnected clusters. We find that the words in these clusters constitute semantic units, and moreover tend to have been introduced into the English language at similar times, suggesting a possible mechanism for language evolution.