CHILEAN FIN-DE-SIÈCLE LEXICOGRAPHY. VOCES USADAS EN CHILE BY ANÍBAL ECHEVERRÍA Y REYES (1900)

Abstract

This paper is a metalexicographical analysis of the dictionary Voces usadas en Chile, by Aníbal Echeverría y Reyes published in Chile in 1900. It reviews the state of lexicography practiced in late 19th Century Chile. The analysis follows Matus’ metalexicographical analysis chart (1995), which allows description, analysis and critical evaluation of lexicographical works on Chilean Spanish. This work aims at reavealing (revealing) the advanced scientific techniques used by Echeverría y Reyes in processing and systematizing dictionary entries. It also shows the strategies used by the author to detach himself from the more purist and conservative ideas that were commonplace in his day. This becomes evident in the increase of idiomatic reference points, which induce a polycentric standardization, as stated by De Granda (1994), and in the way the frontiers between official and marginal lexicon become diffuse, allowing for the inclusion of taboo terms in the dictionary. Finally, the study stresses the importance of Aníbal Echeverría y Reyes’ lexicographical work as a transitional period in the field’s pre-scientific and scientific stages.