WorldWideWeb Acronym and Abbreviation Server

Citation

Culpepper, J. (2000), "WorldWideWeb Acronym and Abbreviation Server", Online Information Review, Vol. 24 No. 5, pp. 401-411. https://doi.org/10.1108/oir.2000.24.5.401.13

The WorldWideWeb Acronym and Abbreviation Server is a list of acronyms and abbreviations from all subjects. The database works with the definition of an acronym as “any string of characters formed from the initial letters (or occasionally from other letters) of several words, regardless of whether the result is pronounceable or not”. A clear description of the index is offered on the recently redesigned homepage. Information throughout this site is presented in well organised and easy‐to‐read format. The simplicity of screen formats facilitates quick retrieval of data. This searchable index of acronyms and their expansions (words explaining what they represent) grows with submissions of users. The inclusion of any acronym or abbreviation in the list does not mean that it is the industry standard or that it is used for a trademark. Unsuccessful searches are recorded. (That list has been removed from public viewing temporarily while updating and rewriting of routines take place.) The Webmaster provides a form for users who wish to submit meanings of items on that list and new items for the index.

Researchers may select from three buttons on the home page: search for an acronym (i.e. see its expansion), search for a word (see the related acronym or acronyms), and submit an acronym (add to the database). Search results quickly appear on screen. Individual users will note any variation of the navigation routine required by their browser. Users should be aware of additional sites on the Web which serve the same or similar purposes, such as AcronymFinder (http://www.acronymfinder. com). This resource offers definitions of over 147,000 acronyms, abbreviations, and initialisms. The home page description indicates that “all subjects including information technology, telecommunications, and the military” are represented in the index.

The WorldWideWeb Acronym and Abbreviation Server is an ambitious project which is highly recommended. Anyone needing to get a start on defining acronyms and abbreviations should check the listing here. The compiler is clearly interested in assisting others, based on the prompt response (with much helpful information) to this reviewer’s e‐mail enquiry.