Merriam-Webster updated its definition of “awe” on May 23, 2026, emphasizing its role as an emotion combining dread, veneration, and wonder inspired by overwhelming greatness. The revision underscores the term’s enduring cultural resonance, with examples spanning natural phenomena to human achievements. Dictionary.com and Cambridge Dictionary also contributed recent context, illustrating how the concept permeates media and public discourse.
Defining Awe: A Tripartite Emotion
Merriam-Webster’s updated entry describes awe as “an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder that is inspired by overwhelming greatness (as in beauty, power, or size).” This definition, last revised on May 23, 2026, reflects a nuanced understanding of the term’s psychological dimensions. The dictionary’s example sentences—such as “We were awed by the beauty of the mountains”—highlight its application to both natural and human-made marvels.
Cambridge Dictionary’s entry, while less detailed, reinforces the emotional complexity of awe. It notes that the term “can be mixed with fear or surprise,” a framing that aligns with Merriam-Webster’s emphasis on “dread.” This duality—admiration tempered by humility—has been a consistent theme in scholarly discussions of the emotion.
Etymology and Cultural Context
Dictionary.com’s coverage of “awe” includes its etymological roots, tracing the word to Middle English *aghe* and Scandinavian *agi*, linked to concepts of fear and pain. This historical perspective reveals how the term has evolved from a primarily negative connotation to a more complex emotional response. The dictionary also cites recent media examples, such as a BBC report from May 22, 2026, which quoted a statement: “First and foremost, we want her to know… how utterly in awe we are of her.”
Such usage underscores awe’s role in public tributes and celebrations. A Los Angeles Times article from May 20, 2026, described a wildlife documentary scene that “inspires a round of laughter and childlike awe,” illustrating how the emotion transcends formal contexts. These examples, drawn from verified sources, show awe’s adaptability across genres and audiences.
Scientific and Philosophical Implications
While none of the primary sources explicitly address scientific studies on awe, their definitions implicitly align with psychological research. Studies have shown that awe can foster prosocial behavior and a sense of connection to something larger than oneself. Dictionary.com’s inclusion of a Guardian review from May 8, 2026, which noted that viewers would “find yourself overcome with awe,” mirrors findings that awe-inducing experiences enhance empathy and cooperation.
The term’s philosophical dimensions are also evident. A Wall Street Journal quote from the same date— “We should all stand in awe of this”—reflects a moral or existential dimension, suggesting that awe can serve as a catalyst for reflection on human values and achievements.
Media and Literary Representations
Dictionary.com’s examples reveal how “awe” is embedded in contemporary media. A quote from Dhonielle Clayton’s novel *The Marvellers*, “I’ve never seen animals like this before,” captures the word’s literary potential to convey astonishment. This aligns with Merriam-Webster’s focus on “overwhelming greatness,” whether in nature or storytelling.
The term’s prevalence in journalism further highlights its cultural significance. BBC and Los Angeles Times articles demonstrate how “awe” is used to frame events ranging from natural wonders to human creativity, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of expressive language.
Conclusion: A Timeless Emotion in a Modern Context
As of May 2026, “awe” remains a vital term for describing profound emotional responses to the extraordinary. Its definitions, as documented by Merriam-Webster, Cambridge Dictionary, and Dictionary.com, reflect both historical continuity and contemporary relevance. Whether in scientific discourse, literary works, or public commentary, the concept continues to shape how humans articulate their relationship with the world’s grandeur.
“First and foremost, we want her to know – and in years to come to see that we’ve told the world how brilliant she is and how utterly in awe we are of her.” — BBC, May 22, The concept of awe remains a vital term for describing profound emotional responses to the extraordinary, shaping how humans articulate their relationship with the world's grandeur.
