The First Volume of the Oxford English Dictionary Published

Date: February 1, 1884

Overview

On February 1, 1884, the first volume of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), covering words from “A” to “Ant,” was published. This marked a significant milestone in the history of lexicography and the English language. The OED was conceived as a comprehensive and authoritative resource, aiming to document the history and usage of every word in the English language from the earliest times to the present.

Background

The project to create the OED began in the mid-19th century. The Philological Society of London recognized the need for a new, comprehensive dictionary that would surpass existing works in scope and detail. In 1857, the society formally proposed the creation of what would become the OED.

Key Figures

• James Murray: Appointed as the primary editor in 1879, Murray was instrumental in shaping the dictionary’s development. His dedication and meticulous approach set the standard for the work.
• Richard Chenevix Trench: An early advocate for the dictionary, Trench’s ideas about the historical and descriptive nature of the dictionary influenced its design.
• Frederick Furnivall: A founding member of the Philological Society, Furnivall played a crucial role in the early stages of the project.

Development

The dictionary’s compilation was an enormous undertaking, involving thousands of volunteer readers who contributed quotations illustrating the usage of words. These quotations were meticulously organized and analyzed to provide comprehensive definitions and etymologies.

Publication

The first volume, “A to Ant,” was published by the Oxford University Press. It was the beginning of a series that would eventually encompass multiple volumes, each detailing a segment of the alphabet.

Significance

• Comprehensive Documentation: The OED set a new standard for dictionaries by providing not just definitions but also detailed etymologies and historical usage examples.
• Cultural Impact: The OED became an essential reference for scholars, writers, and anyone interested in the English language.
• Ongoing Project: The dictionary has continued to evolve, with updates and revisions reflecting changes in the language over time.

Aftermath

The completion of the entire first edition of the OED took several decades, with the final volume published in 1928. The dictionary has since undergone numerous updates and revisions, maintaining its status as a definitive resource on the English language.

The publication of the first volume of the OED on February 1, 1884, was a landmark event in the history of English lexicography, setting the stage for a work that continues to be a cornerstone of linguistic scholarship.