The Dictionary of the English Language

Definition

The Dictionary of the English Language refers primarily to Samuel Johnson's influential dictionary published in 1755, which was a significant milestone in the standardization of English. It compiled a comprehensive list of words, their definitions, and usages, establishing a reference point for writers, scholars, and the general public. This work not only helped to stabilize spelling and grammar but also enriched the English lexicon by including literary quotes and examples.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Samuel Johnson's dictionary was one of the first comprehensive dictionaries in English, taking nearly nine years to complete.
2. Johnson's work included over 40,000 entries, making it one of the most extensive dictionaries of its time.
3. His approach was notable for its literary quality; he included quotations from famous authors to illustrate word usage.
4. Johnson’s dictionary helped standardize English spelling and usage at a time when many regional dialects existed.
5. The dictionary had a lasting influence on later dictionaries, including Noah Webster's American Dictionary, which further shaped American English.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Johnson's Dictionary contribute to the standardization of the English language in the 18th century?
  • Samuel Johnson's Dictionary played a crucial role in standardizing the English language by providing a comprehensive reference that established consistent definitions, spellings, and usages. By compiling a vast number of words and their meanings, Johnson created a resource that writers and scholars could rely on, reducing regional variations. His inclusion of literary quotations further illustrated proper usage, reinforcing norms that shaped future language practices.
• Evaluate the impact of Johnson's Dictionary on later works in lexicography and language standardization.
  • Johnson's Dictionary set a precedent in lexicography that influenced subsequent dictionaries, such as Noah Webster's American Dictionary. Webster built upon Johnson's work by adapting it for American English, promoting consistency in spelling and grammar across the new nation. This legacy continued into modern dictionaries, which still draw upon Johnson’s principles of detailed word entries and illustrative quotes to enhance understanding.
• Analyze how the publication of Johnson's Dictionary reflected broader societal changes in 18th century England.
  • The publication of Johnson's Dictionary reflected significant societal changes in 18th century England, including the rise of literacy and an increasing demand for accessible knowledge. As more people sought education and engagement with literature, a standardized language became essential for communication across various social classes. The dictionary served as both a tool for education and a means to unify a diverse linguistic landscape, illustrating how language evolves alongside societal progress.

Related terms

Lexicography: The practice of compiling dictionaries, focusing on the systematic recording of words and their meanings.

Standardization: The process of establishing a set norm for language, including grammar, spelling, and usage that is widely accepted.

Thesaurus: A reference work that lists words grouped together according to similarity of meaning, offering alternatives and synonyms.