Samuel Johnson’s “A Dictionary of the English Language”

On April 15, 1755, Samuel Johnson published “A Dictionary of the English Language” in London, a monumental work that would become one of the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. This publication marked a significant milestone in lexicography and had a profound impact on the standardization and understanding of English.

Background

Before Johnson’s dictionary, the English language lacked a comprehensive and authoritative reference. Various smaller dictionaries existed, but they were often inconsistent and incomplete. The need for a more systematic approach to documenting the language was evident, especially as English was becoming increasingly important in literature, science, and commerce.

The Making of the Dictionary

Samuel Johnson, a renowned writer and critic, was commissioned by a group of London booksellers in 1746 to create a dictionary. Johnson took on this ambitious project with the promise of payment totaling 1,500 guineas. He worked largely alone, with the assistance of a few clerks, and completed the dictionary in about nine years.

Johnson’s approach was innovative for its time. He aimed to provide not just definitions but also examples of usage, drawing from a wide range of literary sources. He included around 40,000 words and 114,000 quotations from works by authors such as Shakespeare, Milton, and Dryden. His definitions were known for their clarity and wit, often reflecting his own personality and views.

Publication and Impact

Upon its release, “A Dictionary of the English Language” was met with widespread acclaim. It was praised for its thoroughness, organization, and the quality of its definitions. The dictionary was published in two large volumes and quickly became a critical reference for scholars, writers, and educators.

Johnson’s work set a new standard for English dictionaries and influenced subsequent lexicographers, including Noah Webster and the creators of the Oxford English Dictionary. It helped to stabilize English spelling and usage at a time when the language was rapidly evolving.

Legacy

The legacy of Johnson’s dictionary is enduring. It not only provided a foundation for future dictionaries but also contributed to the development of English as a global language. Johnson’s meticulous work and his dedication to capturing the richness of English have left an indelible mark on the study and appreciation of the language.

In summary, the publication of Samuel Johnson’s “A Dictionary of the English Language” on April 15, 1755, was a landmark event in the history of English lexicography, setting a precedent for future dictionaries and shaping the way the language was understood and used for generations to come.