Dictionaries, to update definition of 'Witchcraft' and 'Heathen.'

The Issue

Upon checking the web definitions of "Witchcraft" and "Heathen" on both Oxford and Merriam-Webster's dictionaries I was shocked to see such incorrect, derogatory definitions, for something that is part of a peaceful way of life, for many people. The dictionary is the foundation of the English language, it's used every day by people. Knowledge is power, and words have power. But all I see here is ignorance. Witchcraft in Webster is listed as "Communication with the devil or familiar spirits." In Oxford, it's listed as "The practice of magic, especially black magic" So, as the petitions creator, I feel it prudent that these definitions be updated for the modern world! These definitions are clearly from a period without tolerance, understanding and religious freedom... Which are tenets of democratic nations in the West. Please update these definitions with the help of the elders in notable faiths such as Asatru, Wicca and others. WebEnquiry.UK@oup.comenquiries@britannica.co.uk
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Eclectic Pagan BeliefsPetition Starter
This petition had 72 supporters

The Issue

Upon checking the web definitions of "Witchcraft" and "Heathen" on both Oxford and Merriam-Webster's dictionaries I was shocked to see such incorrect, derogatory definitions, for something that is part of a peaceful way of life, for many people. The dictionary is the foundation of the English language, it's used every day by people. Knowledge is power, and words have power. But all I see here is ignorance. Witchcraft in Webster is listed as "Communication with the devil or familiar spirits." In Oxford, it's listed as "The practice of magic, especially black magic" So, as the petitions creator, I feel it prudent that these definitions be updated for the modern world! These definitions are clearly from a period without tolerance, understanding and religious freedom... Which are tenets of democratic nations in the West. Please update these definitions with the help of the elders in notable faiths such as Asatru, Wicca and others. WebEnquiry.UK@oup.comenquiries@britannica.co.uk
avatar of the starter
Eclectic Pagan BeliefsPetition Starter

The Decision Makers

Merriam Webster
Merriam Webster
Linguistics
Oxford Dictionaries
Oxford Dictionaries
Linguistics

Petition Updates