English definitions (was ENIAC..)

I've been observing the discussion on the definition of "computer" and other computer related words over the last few days/weeks. I've been involved in forums for a number of years now and the most heated arguments seem to take place regarding the definitions of particular words. Often they go along the lines of who invented the first (widget/technique/concept) then evolve into vigourous debates as to the precise definition of the said widget/technique/concept etc. I'm all for precise definitions. You need them for clarity of communication. But the English language itself and the way it evolves is a problem here. It can lead to an unavoidable fuzziness and drifting of definitions over time. In my opinion it's hard (and in some cases pointless) to be too pedantic about these things. The meaning of terms do drift. Unlike French, there is no "authorised" version of English. The various dictionaries we use do not actually define words but rather just reflect their common usage and meanings at the time of publication. This is both the strength of English (it's adaptable and dynamic) and it's weakness (it can be ambiguous). Anyway, just my two cents worth. I never lose much sleep over the percieved sloppiness of a definition unless it's clearly out of that grey area that seems to surround them all. Terry (Tez)