I love dictionaries. I own several and frequently use them to look up definitions and check my spelling (here's a recent source of confusion: pallet, palette, palate). Like with any Wikipedia entry with its embedded links, I get engrossed following word ladders and references throughout the dictionary and lose track of my original inquiry.
Overall, I have found that the major dictionaries (Webster's, American OED, American Heritage) proffer very similar definitions. That being said, I am often confused by the word usage by the news media, especially right leaning media. I was once informed that all arguments are semantic and it's true when you think about it. So I would request that all news providers name their dictionary and general reference of record. I want to know what they mean when they report someone has prevaricated, fabricated or lied. What is socialism, communism, fascism, Nazi-ism and feminazi? The reporting of various news sources (be they mainstream, left or right leaning) is so frequently diametrically opposed that they seem to be speaking different languages. If a mission of news sources is to inform, then we consumers need to know what language is being spoken.
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