Susie Dent is known not only for her role as the face of “Dictionary Corner” on the popular game show “Countdown,” but also for her impressive career as a renowned lexicographer, captivating storyteller of words, and passionate advocate for the English language.
With over two decades of experience on television and a prolific writing career spanning over 20 books, Dent has become synonymous with linguistic wit and wisdom. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $7 million.
Over the years, Dent has gained fame and a good reputation and has been able to amass significant wealth. This article will explore her career and net worth, uncovering how she has made money.
Profile Summary
| Name | Susie Dent |
| Date of birth | November 19, 1964 |
| Age | 60 years old |
| Place of birth | Woking, Surrey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | Somerville College, Oxford (BA in French and German) Princeton University (MA in German) |
| Occupation | Lexicographer, etymologist, media personality, author, podcaster |
| Known for | Countdown (1992-present) 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (2012-present) Something Rhymes With Purple (2019-present) |
| Books | Over 20, including “Word Perfect,” “What Made The Crocodile Cry?,” “The Language Report,” “Dent’s Modern Tribes,” “An Emotional Dictionary” |
| Net worth | Between $2 million and $7 million |
| Spouse | Paul Atkins (separated since 2021) |
| Daughters | Lucy Atkins and Thea Atkins |
Net Worth
Susie Dent is a well-known lexicographer, etymologist, media personality, author, and podcaster. She has been a regular on Countdown since 1992 and has written several books on the English language.
Her estimated net worth as of 2024 is between $2 million and $7 million, but her exact salary has not been publicly disclosed.
According to prospect.ac.uk, lexicographers start as assistant editors and can expect to earn salaries ranging from £18,000 to £22,000. Those who begin as editors may receive £20,000 to £30,000 salaries. Senior editors with experience may earn salaries between £23,000 and £35,000, while project managers can earn up to £45,000.
However, most lexicographers work on a freelance basis, and their rates of pay depend on their experience and skills. This is why some sources claim Susie Dent’s salary currently stands at $400,000 due to her fame, experience, and influence.
Dent earns income from her various professions, including her work on Countdown and her podcast with Gyles Brandreth called Something Rhymes With Purple.
Career
Susie Dent is an English lexicographer, etymologist, and media personality fascinated by words and languages since childhood. She studied modern language (French and German) at Oxford University and earned a master’s degree in German from Princeton University. After graduating, she worked as a language teacher in the USA and for a German publisher.
In 1992, she joined the popular game show Countdown as its resident lexicographer and adjudicator for the letters rounds. She also provides brief commentaries on the origin and history of various words and phrases on the show.
She is one of the longest-serving members of the current on-screen team and has made over 2,500 appearances. She also appears on the comedy spin-off show 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, hosted by Jimmy Carr.
Besides her television work, Dent has written several books on the English language, such as The Language Report, Larpers and Shroomers, Fanboys and Overdogs, and Dent’s Modern Tribes. She also co-hosts a podcast called Something Rhymes With Purple with Gyles Brandreth, where they explore the world of words and their origins. She writes columns for Radio Times and i newspaper and occasionally appears on other shows such as Would I Lie to You?, House of Games, and Not Going Out.
Dent is an honorary vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading and an honorary fellow and vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Linguists. She also patronizes the National Literacy Trust and the Children’s University.
In 2023, she embarked on a solo tour, The Secret Lives of Words, where she shared her passion and knowledge of the English language with live audiences.
Susie Dent is widely regarded as one of the most authoritative and engaging experts on the English language. She has a loyal fan base and a reputation for being witty, charming, and informative. She is often praised for her ability to make language fun and accessible for everyone.
Susie Dent’s Books
Susie Dent is not only a lexicographer and etymologist but also a prolific author who has published many books on the English language.
Her books explore various aspects of language, such as slang, jargon, idioms, swear words, and regional dialects. She also shares her passion and curiosity for words and their histories. She offers tips and advice on how to use language effectively and creatively.
Some of her most popular books are:
The Language Report (2003–2007): A series of yearly reports documenting the changes and trends in the English language, such as new words, phrases, and usages.
Larpers and Shroomers (2004): A book that examines the secret languages of various subcultures and groups, such as live-action role-players, mushroom hunters, and crossword solvers.
Fanboys and Overdogs (2005): A book that explores the power and influence of language, such as how words can persuade, inspire, offend, or amuse.
The Like, Language Report for Real (2006): A book that focuses on the language of young people, such as texting, slang, and internet speaking.
The Language Report: English on the Move 2000-2007 (2007): A book that summarizes the main findings and highlights of the previous Language Reports and provides new insights and observations on the English language.
Dent’s Modern Tribes (2016): A book that reveals the secret languages of various professions and occupations, such as lawyers, doctors, teachers, and journalists.
Word Perfect: Etymological Entertainment for Every Day of the Year (2020): A book that offers a word or phrase for each day, along with its origin, meaning, and usage. The book also features anecdotes, trivia, and quizzes related to language.
Susie Dent’s books are informative, entertaining, and accessible for anyone who loves language and wants to learn more about it. She writes with clarity, humor, and enthusiasm, showing how language constantly evolves and reflects our culture and society.