They are the experts who:
* Collect and analyze words from various sources like books, articles, and speech.
* Define the meanings of words and determine their usage in different contexts.
* Establish the pronunciation, spelling, and etymology (origin) of words.
* Write and edit dictionary entries.
* Collaborate with other lexicographers and specialists to ensure accuracy and consistency.
So, while you might see a name like "Merriam-Webster" on a dictionary, it's actually a team of lexicographers who are responsible for putting all the words and definitions together.