The dictionary, a staple in many households and a crucial tool for language learners, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings to the modern digital versions we use today, the dictionary has undergone significant transformations, shaped by the contributions of numerous scholars, linguists, and lexicographers. In this article, we will delve into the history secrets behind the dictionary, exploring its evolution, notable milestones, and the people who played a crucial role in its development.
Early Beginnings: The First Dictionaries
The concept of a dictionary dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of word lists and glossaries found in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. The earliest known dictionary is the Shuowen Jiezi, a Chinese dictionary compiled by Xu Shen in 100 AD. However, the modern dictionary as we know it today began to take shape in the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe. One of the earliest English dictionaries was Robert Cawdrey’s A Table Alphabeticall, published in 1604, which contained a list of “hard words” with their meanings and explanations.
The Influence of Samuel Johnson
In 1755, Samuel Johnson published his groundbreaking A Dictionary of the English Language, which standardized the English language and provided a comprehensive guide to its vocabulary. Johnson’s dictionary was a monumental work that took nine years to complete and contained over 40,000 entries. His approach to lexicography, which emphasized the importance of example sentences and quotations, set the tone for future dictionary compilers. Johnson’s dictionary was not without its controversies, however, as he was known to have included his own opinions and biases in the definitions.
| Dictionary | Year Published | Compiler |
|---|---|---|
| A Table Alphabeticall | 1604 | Robert Cawdrey |
| A Dictionary of the English Language | 1755 | Samuel Johnson |
| An American Dictionary of the English Language | 1828 | Noah Webster |
The Rise of American English: Noah Webster’s Contributions
In the late 18th century, Noah Webster began working on his An American Dictionary of the English Language, which was published in 1828. Webster’s dictionary was a landmark work that introduced many innovations, including the use of American spellings, such as “color” instead of “colour,” and the inclusion of American words and phrases. Webster’s dictionary also emphasized the importance of pronunciation and provided guidance on how to pronounce words correctly.
The Role of Lexicographers
Lexicographers, the scholars responsible for compiling and editing dictionaries, have played a crucial role in shaping the English language. James Murray, the editor of the Oxford English Dictionary, is a notable example. Murray spent over 30 years working on the dictionary, which was published in installments between 1884 and 1928. His meticulous approach to lexicography and commitment to accuracy set a new standard for dictionary compilation.
The development of dictionaries has been shaped by advances in technology, from the introduction of the printing press to the rise of digital dictionaries. Today, dictionaries are available in various formats, including online and mobile apps, making it easier than ever to access and use language resources. Despite the many changes in the way dictionaries are created and used, their core function remains the same: to provide a comprehensive guide to the language and facilitate communication.
What is the oldest known dictionary?
+The oldest known dictionary is the Shuowen Jiezi, a Chinese dictionary compiled by Xu Shen in 100 AD.
Who is credited with standardizing the English language?
+Samuel Johnson is credited with standardizing the English language through his A Dictionary of the English Language, published in 1755.
What is the most widely used dictionary today?
+The Oxford English Dictionary is widely considered the most comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of the English language, with over 170,000 entries.
In conclusion, the history of the dictionary is a rich and complex one, shaped by the contributions of numerous scholars, linguists, and lexicographers. From its humble beginnings to the modern digital versions we use today, the dictionary has played a vital role in standardizing languages, facilitating communication, and promoting literacy. By exploring the history secrets behind the dictionary, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of language and the importance of preserving and promoting linguistic diversity.
