What To Know
- The word is a compound of two words, which typically merge to form a new single word.
- In general, compound words formed from a noun and a verb are typically spelled as one word.
- Yes, a hyphenated form can be used when the compound word is used as an adjective or to avoid confusion.
The question of whether “dishwasher” is one word or two has sparked debates and divided households for generations. This linguistic conundrum can leave us scratching our heads, wondering about the correct spelling and usage. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of grammar and etymology to unravel the mystery surrounding “dishwasher.”
Etymology of “Dishwasher”
The word “dishwasher” originated in the late 19th century, when the first mechanical devices for washing dishes were invented. It is a compound word formed from two distinct words: “dish” and “washer.”
- Dish: A shallow container used for serving or eating food.
- Washer: A person or machine that washes something.
Spelling and Usage
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “dishwasher” is spelled as one word. This spelling is widely accepted in both American and British English. However, some style guides, such as The Chicago Manual of Style, recommend using a hyphenated form: “dish-washer.”
One Word vs. Two Words: Arguments and Evidence
Arguments for One Word:
- Etymology: The word is a compound of two words, which typically merge to form a new single word.
- Common Usage: The vast majority of people spell and use “dishwasher” as one word, making it the more prevalent form.
- Consistency: Other similar compound words, such as “bookcase” and “doorway,” are also spelled as one word.
Arguments for Two Words:
- Clarity: Using a hyphenated form can help to distinguish between the two component words and their respective meanings.
- Historical Usage: In the early 20th century, it was more common to spell “dishwasher” as two words.
- Emphasis: The hyphen can be used to emphasize the separate functions of the dish and the washer.
Grammar Rules and Exceptions
In general, compound words formed from a noun and a verb are typically spelled as one word. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as:
- Nouns that end in “-er” or “-or”: These nouns usually remain separate from the verb, e.g., “dance instructor” and “house cleaner.”
- Nouns that describe a person’s occupation: These nouns are often spelled as two words, e.g., “chief executive officer” and “flight attendant.”
When to Use a Hyphen
While “dishwasher” is typically spelled as one word, there are certain instances where a hyphen may be appropriate:
- When the compound word is used as an adjective: For example, “a dish-washing machine.”
- When the compound word is used to avoid confusion: For example, “dish-washer” can be used to distinguish between a person who washes dishes and a machine that washes dishes.
In a nutshell: The Verdict
Based on the etymology, common usage, and grammatical rules, the overwhelming consensus is that “dishwasher” should be spelled as one word. While hyphenated forms may be used in certain contexts, the one-word spelling is the most widely accepted and recommended.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Is it okay to use “dish-washer” in some cases?
Yes, a hyphenated form can be used when the compound word is used as an adjective or to avoid confusion.
2. Is “dish washer” ever spelled as two words?
Yes, some style guides, such as The Chicago Manual of Style, recommend using a hyphenated form.
3. What is the plural form of “dishwasher”?
The plural form of “dishwasher” is “dishwashers.”
4. Is there a difference in meaning between “dishwasher” and “dish-washer”?
Generally, no. However, in some contexts, the hyphenated form can emphasize the separate functions of the dish and the washer.
5. Is “dish” a verb or a noun?
Dish can be both a noun (a shallow container) and a verb (to serve or prepare food).
