* Constantly evolving language: Like all languages, Tamil is dynamic. New words are constantly being coined, while others fall out of use.
* Regional variations: Tamil has different dialects and regional variations, each with its own vocabulary.
* Technical terms: There are countless technical terms in specific fields that might not be included in general dictionaries.
* Historical and literary sources: Older Tamil literature and inscriptions contribute to a vast vocabulary, which may not be fully accounted for in modern dictionaries.
Instead of an exact number, it's more accurate to say that Tamil has a rich vocabulary with a vast historical legacy and a continuously expanding modern lexicon.