Metalexicography, dictionaries and culture

According to Wiegand et al. (2020: 322) metalexicography is the overarching theoretical domain of lexicography. It encompasses the theoretical foundation of all lexicographic activities and processes. An earlier distinction between metalexicography and dictionary research is no longer maintained and these terms are used as synonyms. Consequently the areas of research previously allocated to dictionary research, cf. Wiegand (1998: 114), i.e. systematic dictionary research, research in the use of dictionaries, historical dictionary research and critical dictionary research, now also fall within the domain of metalexicography – as already indicated much earlier in Wiegand (1984: 15). There is an interactive relation between language and culture and familiarity with many aspects of this relation can be regarded as necessary for the best possible comprehension of language and the appropriate use of language in typical situations of use. General language dictionaries are tools that reflect language in order to enhance its understanding and use. Therefore it is of paramount importance that dictionaries should also reflect some of the aspects of the relation between language and culture. Research directed at this responsibility of dictionaries is also accommodated within the domain of metalexicography. Such research is needed to enrich the metalexicographic literature, to stimulate advanced research into this field and eventually to have a sound impact on the lexicographic practice. This should result in an improved approach to this interactive relation in new and revised lexicographic products. The scope of the topic dealt with in the thematic part of this volume of Lexicographica allows the discussion of a wide range of focal points that brings dictionaries and culture within the cradle of metalexicography. In the invitation to authors they were informed that there could be different approaches to the topic “Metalexicography, dictionaries and culture”. The invitation stated: