The Oxford Dictionary is a renowned and authoritative dictionary of the English language, published by Oxford University Press. It is widely considered to be one of the most comprehensive and accurate dictionaries of English, providing detailed definitions, pronunciation guides, and examples of usage for over 170,000 words, phrases, and senses. The dictionary is based on a vast corpus of texts, including literary works, newspapers, magazines, and other sources, which are continuously updated to reflect changes in language usage and new words and meanings.
History of the Oxford Dictionary
The Oxford Dictionary has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century. The first edition, published in 1884, was the brainchild of Herbert Coleridge, a British lexicographer, and Frederick James Furnivall, a scholar and linguist. The dictionary was initially titled “A New English Dictionary on Historical Principles” and was intended to provide a comprehensive and authoritative record of the English language. Over the years, the dictionary has undergone numerous revisions and updates, with new editions published in 1897, 1928, and 1989. The most recent edition, published in 2010, is the second edition of the Oxford English Dictionary, which includes over 170,000 entries and 2.5 million quotations.
Key Features of the Oxford Dictionary
The Oxford Dictionary is known for its comprehensive coverage of the English language, including words, phrases, and senses from a wide range of fields, including literature, science, technology, and everyday usage. The dictionary also provides etymological information, tracing the history and evolution of words and their meanings. Additionally, the dictionary includes pronunciation guides, using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to help users with accurate pronunciation. The dictionary also features quotations and examples from literary and other sources, illustrating the usage of words and phrases in context.
| Dictionary Edition | Number of Entries | Publication Year |
|---|---|---|
| First Edition | 15,000 | 1884 |
| Second Edition | 170,000 | 1989 |
| Third Edition | 170,000+ | 2010 |
Online Version of the Oxford Dictionary
In addition to the print edition, the Oxford Dictionary is also available online, providing users with easy access to its vast repository of language information. The online version includes all the features of the print edition, as well as additional tools and resources, such as word of the day, quizzes and games, and language learning resources. The online version is updated regularly, ensuring that users have access to the most up-to-date information on the English language.
Impact of the Oxford Dictionary on Language Learning
The Oxford Dictionary has had a significant impact on language learning, providing learners with a comprehensive and authoritative resource for improving their language skills. The dictionary’s clear and concise definitions, pronunciation guides, and examples of usage make it an essential tool for learners of all levels, from beginner to advanced. Additionally, the dictionary’s etymological information and historical context provide learners with a deeper understanding of the English language and its evolution.
- Language learners: The Oxford Dictionary provides language learners with a comprehensive and authoritative resource for improving their language skills.
- Writers and scholars: The dictionary is an indispensable resource for writers and scholars, providing detailed information on word usage, pronunciation, and etymology.
- Language teachers: The dictionary is a valuable resource for language teachers, providing them with accurate and up-to-date information on language usage and teaching materials.
What is the Oxford Dictionary?
+The Oxford Dictionary is a renowned and authoritative dictionary of the English language, published by Oxford University Press.
What are the key features of the Oxford Dictionary?
+The Oxford Dictionary is known for its comprehensive coverage of the English language, including words, phrases, and senses from a wide range of fields, as well as its etymological information, pronunciation guides, and quotations and examples.
Is the Oxford Dictionary available online?
+Yes, the Oxford Dictionary is available online, providing users with easy access to its vast repository of language information, as well as additional tools and resources, such as word of the day, quizzes and games, and language learning resources.
