The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is widely regarded as the most comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of the English language. With a history spanning over 150 years, the OED has evolved to become an indispensable resource for linguists, scholars, and language enthusiasts alike. The dictionary's inception dates back to 1857, when the Philological Society of London embarked on an ambitious project to create a comprehensive dictionary of the English language.
History and Development of the OED
The OED’s development was a painstaking process that involved the contributions of numerous scholars and linguists. The dictionary’s first editor, Herbert Coleridge, played a pivotal role in shaping the project’s scope and direction. After Coleridge’s untimely death, Frederick James Furnivall took over as the editor, followed by James Murray, who is often credited as the driving force behind the OED’s completion. Murray’s editorial tenure spanned over 36 years, during which he oversaw the publication of the dictionary’s first fascicles (installments).
Key Features and Characteristics
The OED is distinguished by its exhaustive coverage of the English language, with over 170,000 entries and 250,000 definitions. The dictionary’s entries are accompanied by etymological information, which provides insights into the words’ historical development and evolution. The OED also includes a vast array of quotations from literary and non-literary sources, which serve as illustrative examples of word usage. Furthermore, the dictionary’s historical scope is unparalleled, with coverage dating back to the earliest recorded English words.
| Dictionary Edition | Publication Year | Number of Entries |
|---|---|---|
| First Edition | 1884-1928 | 414,825 |
| Second Edition | 1989 | 291,500 |
| Third Edition | 2000 (in progress) | 170,000+ (and growing) |
Impact and Influence of the OED
The OED’s impact on the English language and linguistics cannot be overstated. The dictionary has set the standard for lexicographical excellence, influencing the development of dictionaries and language resources worldwide. The OED’s authoritative status has also made it an essential tool for scholars, writers, and language professionals, who rely on the dictionary for accurate information on word meanings, usage, and historical context.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite its revered status, the OED has faced numerous challenges and controversies over the years. The dictionary’s exclusive focus on Standard English has been criticized for neglecting non-standard varieties and dialects. Additionally, the OED’s historical bias has been questioned, with some arguing that the dictionary’s coverage of earlier periods is more comprehensive than its treatment of modern English.
The OED's digital transformation has also raised important questions about the dictionary's future direction and accessibility. As the OED continues to evolve and adapt to the demands of the digital age, it is likely that the dictionary will remain a vital resource for language users and scholars alike.
What is the Oxford English Dictionary?
+The Oxford English Dictionary is a comprehensive dictionary of the English language, covering over 170,000 entries and 250,000 definitions.
How often is the OED updated?
+The OED is regularly updated, with new entries and revisions added quarterly.
Is the OED available online?
+Yes, the OED is available online, offering advanced search features, regular updates, and a range of supplementary resources.
