The What
The glossary draws on the Ethiopian idea of sem ena werq - wax and gold. Every word has a surface meaning and a deeper one, and we are here to explore both. That is also why many entries surface how the same term gets used politically - because who defines a word often matters as much as what it means.
We know that how words are defined can touch nerves. Language can exclude even when it means to enlighten. That is why every entry here is open for improvement. If a term feels off, incomplete, or misses a crucial perspective, help us make it better.
In other words, this is not a fixed dictionary. It is a living field guide where definitions, context, and political meaning are all open to scrutiny. The goal is not to force one final meaning, but to make meaning clearer, fairer, and more useful across different communities and lived realities.
The Why
This space grew from a simple need. Colleagues for whom English is not a first language kept asking: what do these words actually mean? Not just polycrisis, but the whole ecosystem of jargon that shapes how we talk about climate, justice, economics, health, technology, and daily life.
We wanted to make sense of the words, not throw them out. Every term has a plain definition, an honest editorial take, and a Jargon-Meter - a friendly gauge included for a bit of fun that flags where language may have hardened into something too technical or too insulated for its own good.
This is not exhaustive. Words are missing. Perspectives are missing. Contribute a definition, challenge our take, or add a word we have not thought of. It gets better every time someone does.
The How
You are invited: how to use, and shape, this space. We do not assume key terms are neutral. Many of the words used in debates about crisis, inequality, and governance are chosen strategically - to advance particular political projects or to hide partisanship behind expert-sounding jargon.
- You can explore: wander the glossary, click on a word, and see what others make of it.
- You can improve: translate dense or specialist language into everyday English and flag what is missing or overlooked.
- You can add: suggest a new term from your field or community and propose your own short definition.
- You can contest: note where your own tradition gives a word a different meaning or political charge.
- And we ask that you respect: engage critically but gently. No word is beyond question and no contributor beyond correction.
Every edit, addition, or small comment helps grow this shared field of meaning. Over time, it will thicken and stretch to include the words that truly define how we live, work, and imagine change.
Latest entries
Explore our newest entries into the Glossary.
Antifragile
Systems that get stronger from stress, disorder, and shocks -- not just surviving them but improving because of them.
Open entry Latest termReciprocity
Mutual exchange of actions, resources, or obligations between parties.
Open entry Latest termGift
A voluntary transfer of resources without formal obligation of return; in philanthropy, a donation framed as generosity rather than obligation.
Open entryExplore words A-Z
Search by term name, then jump to any letter.