The Oxford English Dictionary: A Comprehensive History and Significance
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is widely regarded as the definitive historical dictionary of the English language. It serves not only as a comprehensive reference for definitions but also as a record of the evolution of English words over time. This article delves into the history, development, and ongoing significance of the OED.
Oxford English Dictionary Origins and Development
The idea for the Oxford English Dictionary originated in 1857 when members of the Philological Society in London proposed the need for a new, comprehensive dictionary. At that time, existing dictionaries were deemed inadequate, most notably Samuel Johnson's *Dictionary of the English Language*, published in 1755. The Philological Society aimed to create a dictionary that documented every word in the English language, including its historical usage and etymology.
The project was spearheaded by scholars such as Richard Chenevix Trench, Herbert Coleridge, and Frederick Furnivall. Their initial vision was ambitious: to compile a dictionary based on actual evidence from printed sources spanning the entire history of the English language. However, progress was slow, and it wasn't until 1879 that Oxford University Press agreed to publish the work, appointing James Murray as the chief editor.
Murray revitalized the project by establishing a volunteer reading program, which encouraged contributors to submit quotations illustrating word usage. This crowdsourced approach proved invaluable, allowing for a more thorough compilation of language data.
The Scriptorium and Editorial Challenges
Murray worked from a makeshift office known as the Scriptorium, located in his garden in Oxford. Here, he and his team sorted through thousands of "slips"—small pieces of paper containing quotations for various words. This meticulous process aimed to trace each word's history from its earliest recorded use to contemporary meanings.
The editorial team faced numerous challenges during this lengthy endeavor. Disagreements often arose regarding which words should be included, with Murray advocating for a comprehensive approach that included colloquial terms, while Oxford University Press sought efficiency and conciseness.
Publication Milestones
The first edition of the OED was published in 1928, comprising ten volumes with over 250,000 entries and nearly 2 million quotations. This monumental work was celebrated for its depth and accuracy, establishing the OED as an authoritative source on the English language.
In 1933, a one-volume supplement was released, marking the transition to the title *Oxford English Dictionary*. Subsequent editions followed, including a second edition published in 1989, which expanded upon earlier volumes and incorporated additional words that had emerged since the first edition.
The Role of William Chester Minor
A notable figure in the history of the OED is William Chester Minor, an American surgeon who contributed significantly to its compilation while residing in an asylum due to mental health issues. Minor's extensive reading allowed him to submit thousands of quotations that enriched the dictionary’s content. His story highlights both the collaborative nature of the OED's creation and its connection to personal narratives.
Modern Relevance
Today, the OED continues to evolve alongside the English language. It recognizes that language is dynamic; new words are constantly added, reflecting changes in culture, technology, and society. The online version of the OED provides users with up-to-date information and access to extensive resources.
As of now, it receives millions of visits each month, making it an essential tool for scholars, writers, students, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of English.
Oxford English Dictionary Conclusion
The Oxford English Dictionary stands as a monumental achievement in linguistic scholarship. Its comprehensive approach to documenting not just definitions but also etymology and historical usage sets it apart from other dictionaries. As a living document that adapts to changes in language and culture, the OED remains an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of the English language.
