The Enduring Legacy: Exploring the History of English Language Dictionaries

By Melati

Mar 28, 2025

In History

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Dictionaries, those seemingly ubiquitous companions on our desks and in our digital devices, hold a rich and fascinating history. More than just lists of words and their definitions, they are cultural artifacts that reflect the evolving nature of language itself. Understanding the history of English language dictionaries offers a window into how we communicate, how knowledge is organized, and how societies change. This journey through lexicography's past reveals the dedication, ingenuity, and occasional controversies that have shaped these essential tools.

From Glossaries to Grand Compilations: Early Attempts at Defining Words

The history of English language dictionaries begins long before the printing press. Early attempts at defining words took the form of glossaries – short lists of difficult or foreign words with explanations. These glossaries often appeared alongside manuscripts of classical texts, aiding readers in understanding unfamiliar vocabulary. These weren't comprehensive dictionaries in the modern sense, but they were crucial stepping stones. They highlighted the need for accessible explanations of language, paving the way for more ambitious projects. The impetus behind these glossaries was often practical: facilitating the understanding of religious texts or legal documents written in Latin or other languages prevalent among educated elites.

As the English language gained prominence, so did the desire to codify and standardize it. The 16th and 17th centuries witnessed a surge in lexicographical activity, driven by a growing sense of national identity and a desire to elevate English to the status of other European languages like French and Italian. These early dictionaries were often the work of individual scholars, driven by their personal passion for language. While not always comprehensive, they represent a significant step towards systematic word collection and definition. They frequently included etymologies (word origins) alongside definitions, reflecting a growing interest in the historical development of language. However, these etymologies were often based on speculation rather than rigorous linguistic analysis.

The Rise of Authority: Defining the 'Correct' Usage

The 18th century saw a shift towards a more prescriptive approach to lexicography. Samuel Johnson's A Dictionary of the English Language, published in 1755, marked a watershed moment. Johnson aimed to