American English

noun

: the English language as spoken in the U.S.
used especially with the implication that it is clearly distinguishable from British English yet not so divergent as to be a separate language

Example Sentences

There are many differences between British English and American English.

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of American English was in 1805

Dictionary Entries Near American English

Cite this Entry

“American English.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/American%20English. Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!


Challenging Standardized Test Words, Vol. 2

  • a pencil broken in half on top of a test answer sheet
  • The business’s new computer system proved not to be a panacea.
Spell It

Hear a word and type it out. How many can you get right?

TAKE THE QUIZ
Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can with using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.

Can you make 12 words with 7 letters?

PLAY