Skip to main content

Oxford Dictionary

Share:

Oxford Dictionary in Non-Fiction

Oxford Dictionary in Antiquarian & Collectable

Oxford Dictionary in Office Equipment & Supplies

More ways to browse:

About Oxford Dictionary

Considered by many to be the premier dictionary in the English language, the Oxford dictionary contains over 300,000 entries and serves as one of the most comprehensive resources for vocabulary in English. Given this enormous reference work's scope, the compilation of a single addition can take decades. In fact, work on the first edition of the Oxford dictionary began in 1850, but was not completed until almost 30 years later. In the ensuing decades, there have been several new editions of the Oxford dictionary. The original impetus for creating this reference book stemmed from the frustration of a small circle of intellectuals in England who were dissatisfied with the quality of English-language dictionaries. They came together to see if they could not flesh out a better approach to defining terms within English. This small project between friends would go on to become one of the largest efforts undertaken in the codification of the English language. Today, the Oxford dictionary is the go-to reference book for everyone from students to parents. Oxford dictionaries are published in a variety of formats. Large tomes with leather binding and a full series of entries are common, as well as smaller paperback editions that can be readily toted to school or university. Oxford has also transitioned into specialty dictionaries within the English language, creating dictionary references for areas such as nursing, engineering, and more. For some of the most expansive and informed references in the English language, look into Oxford dictionary and its associated publications.