A History of Words: Exploring the Oxford English Dictionary

22 May 2024

Oxford English Dictionary Faucet at Willard Wurm blog

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind the words we use every day? Where did they come from? How have their meanings changed over time? The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is more than just a dictionary; it's a vast and meticulously researched chronicle of the English language, documenting the evolution of words from their earliest recorded appearances to their present-day usage. It's a treasure trove of linguistic history, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of our shared vocabulary.

The OED is a historical dictionary, meaning that it doesn't just provide definitions; it traces the entire documented history of each word. This approach distinguishes it from descriptive dictionaries, which focus on current usage. The dictionary’s entries offer a chronological record of a word’s various meanings, illustrating how they have shifted, expanded, and sometimes even disappeared over centuries. It’s like having access to a time machine for language, allowing us to witness the dynamic nature of words and their adaptation to ever-changing social and cultural contexts.

The project that would eventually become the OED began in 1857 with the Philological Society of London, driven by a desire to create a comprehensive record of the English language. Realizing the scale of the undertaking, they envisioned a dictionary that would be truly exhaustive, including every word from Old English onward. The initial stages were slow and arduous, with volunteers contributing quotations illustrating word usage on slips of paper. It wasn't until James Murray took the helm in 1879 that the project gained real momentum, with the first volume finally published in 1884. The complete first edition, known as the "New English Dictionary on Historical Principles," wasn't finished until 1928.

The importance of the Oxford English Dictionary is difficult to overstate. It serves as a vital resource for scholars, writers, researchers, and anyone interested in the history and nuances of the English language. Its meticulous scholarship and comprehensive coverage make it the definitive authority on word origins, meanings, and usage. The OED continues to evolve, with regular updates and revisions reflecting the ever-changing landscape of the English language. New words and senses are added, and existing entries are refined based on ongoing research and analysis.

One of the key benefits of the OED is its unparalleled depth of information. It provides not just definitions, but etymologies, pronunciations, quotations from literature and other sources, and detailed usage notes. This rich contextual information allows readers to understand not just what a word means, but how it has been used throughout history and across different dialects. For example, tracing the etymology of the word "nice" reveals its surprising journey from the Latin "nescius," meaning "ignorant," through various stages of meaning including "foolish," "coy," and "fastidious," before arriving at its current meaning of "pleasant" or "agreeable." The OED illuminates such fascinating linguistic journeys, providing insights into the evolution of our language.

The OED offers both online and print versions. While the print edition remains a cherished possession for many, the online version offers the advantages of searchability, regular updates, and access to a vast archive of material. The online platform also provides powerful search tools, allowing users to explore the dictionary by date range, region, and other criteria.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Oxford English Dictionary

Advantages	Disadvantages
Comprehensive Coverage	Cost (for online subscription)
Historical Depth	Can be overwhelming for casual users
Regular Updates (online version)	Size and complexity (print version)

One of the challenges of a historical lexicon like the OED is keeping up with the rapid pace of language change, particularly in the digital age. New words and slang expressions emerge constantly, and the OED strives to document these developments while maintaining its rigorous standards of scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Oxford English Dictionary

What is the difference between the OED and other dictionaries? (The OED is a historical dictionary, focusing on the entire history of a word, while most other dictionaries are descriptive, focusing on current usage.)

How often is the OED updated? (The online version is updated quarterly with new words and revisions.)

How can I access the OED? (It is available through subscription online and in print.)

Is the OED suitable for everyday use? (While valuable, its depth can be overwhelming for casual lookups. A shorter Oxford dictionary may be more practical for daily use.)

What is the Oxford English Dictionary's abbreviation? (OED)

Who publishes the Oxford English Dictionary? (Oxford University Press)

When did work begin on the Oxford English Dictionary? (1857)

What is the origin of the Oxford English Dictionary?(It originated with the Philological Society of London.)

In conclusion, the Oxford English Dictionary is a monumental achievement in lexicography, providing an unmatched resource for understanding the history and evolution of the English language. From its humble beginnings in the mid-19th century to its current status as a digital behemoth, the OED continues to evolve, adapting to the ever-changing linguistic landscape. Its importance lies not only in its comprehensive documentation of words but also in its ability to illuminate the cultural and social contexts in which those words have lived and breathed. Exploring the OED is like embarking on a fascinating journey through time, uncovering the hidden stories behind the words we use every day. Whether you are a scholar, a writer, a student, or simply a lover of words, the OED offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, reminding us of the power and beauty of language. Delve into its pages, or its online interface, and discover the rich tapestry of our shared linguistic heritage.