Learn About Aaron Peckham: Age, Birthdate, Zodiac Sign & More

Aaron Peckham Biography

Aaron Peckham is a computer scientist and entrepreneur who is best known for founding the popular website Urban Dictionary. Born on March 4, 1979, in the United States, Peckham had a passion for technology from a young age. He attended California Polytechnic State University, where he majored in computer science.

During his freshman year at Cal Poly, Peckham had the idea to create an online dictionary dedicated to slang terminology. In 1999, he launched Urban Dictionary as a way to document and catalog the ever-evolving world of urban slang. The website quickly gained popularity, attracting users from around the world who contributed over 12 million definitions.

One of the key moments in Urban Dictionary's history came in 2003 when a judge in the U.K. referenced the website in a court case involving slang lyrics from two rappers. This news story brought widespread attention to the website and solidified its reputation as a valuable resource for understanding contemporary language.

Peckham's initial motivation for creating Urban Dictionary was to compare the slang used by university students in California. He saw traditional dictionaries as outdated and stuffy, and wanted to provide a platform where users could contribute and define their own language. The website's success proved that there was a demand for a more dynamic and community-driven approach to defining words and phrases.

Today, Urban Dictionary is used not only by everyday internet users but also by linguists and researchers who study the evolution of language. The website continues to be a go-to source for understanding slang terms and expressions in various subcultures.

Aside from his work on Urban Dictionary, Peckham also has a background in computer science and technology. He has a keen interest in the ways that technology can shape and influence language, and he continues to innovate in the field of digital communication.

Peckham's legacy as an entrepreneur and innovator is firmly established through his creation of Urban Dictionary. His vision for a user-generated dictionary has had a lasting impact on how we define and understand language in the digital age.

  • Early Years

    Aaron Peckham was born and raised in the United States, where he developed his passion for technology and language.

  • Education and Career

    Peckham attended California Polytechnic State University, where he studied computer science and laid the groundwork for his future as an entrepreneur. He founded Urban Dictionary in 1999 during his freshman year, setting the stage for his success in the tech industry.

  • Legacy and Impact

    Urban Dictionary remains a popular and widely-used resource for understanding slang terminology, thanks to Peckham's vision and innovation. His work has paved the way for a more inclusive and community-driven approach to defining language.