Neysluvarur

Neysluvarur, also known as the Icelandic National Dictionary (Íslensk orðabók), is a comprehensive lexicographical project aimed at documenting the Icelandic language in its modern form. Initiated in 1958, the project is a collaborative effort between the Icelandic Academy of Language and Literature (*Mál- og menningarsjóður Íslands*) and the Icelandic Academy of Sciences (*Vísindafélag Íslands*). Its primary goal is to compile a definitive dictionary of Icelandic, capturing both historical and contemporary usage while preserving the language’s unique characteristics.

The dictionary covers all aspects of Icelandic vocabulary, including standard terms, regional dialects, historical words, and specialized terminology from various fields such as science, law, and literature. Unlike earlier dictionaries, which often relied on older texts, Neysluvarur emphasizes contemporary usage, drawing from written and spoken sources from the 20th and 21st centuries. It also incorporates loanwords, neologisms, and variations in spelling and pronunciation.

The project has been ongoing for decades, with the first volume published in 1980. As of recent updates, the dictionary continues to evolve, with new entries and revisions added periodically. It serves as an essential reference tool for linguists, educators, writers, and the general public, ensuring the preservation and accurate representation of Icelandic language evolution.

Neysluvarur is available in both print and digital formats, with an online version accessible through the Icelandic Academy’s website. The dictionary’s rigorous methodology and extensive coverage make it a cornerstone of Icelandic lexicography, reflecting the language’s rich heritage while adapting to modern linguistic changes.