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Did Merriam-Webster recently update its definition of 'preference'?

Wednesday, October 21, 2020
By Jacqueline Agustin
YES

In October 2020, Merriam-Webster edited its definition of "preference" to note that the word is offensive when referring to sexual orientation. "Preference," the dictionary explains, implies a "person can choose who they are sexually or romantically attracted to."

The phrase "sexual preference" received increased attention when Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett used it during the second day of her Senate confirmation hearing. Her use of the phrase was called out by Sen. Mazie Hirono, who referred to it as "offensive and outdated."

Merriam-Webster's editor-at-large confirmed the update, adding that such revisions are a "routine part of the job" and that all revisions "reflect evidence of use."

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