Books

London: Printed by W. Strahan, for J. and P. Knapton; T. and T. Longman; C. Hitch and L. Hawes; A. Millar; and R. and J. Dodsley, 1755. First edition. Title pages printed in red and black. Text printed in two columns. 2 vols. Folio (407 x 248 mm.). Contemporary calf gilt. Rebacked retaining original backstrips, endpapers renewed. Corners somewhat worn, title pages creased (vol. I with blank lower outer corner restored); occasional foxing (at times pronounced), chiefly in first volume, scattered light stains and early marginalia. Old repairs to last 3 leaves of vol. II (margins of 3IB; three portions of 3IC costing approx. 30 words; and small repairs on terminal leaf costing 5 words. Sound, generally clean, sturdy and attractive. Very good. Cloth slipcases. First edition. Title pages printed in red and black. Text printed in two columns. 2 vols. Folio (407 x 248 mm.). First edition of "the most amazing, enduring and endearing one-man feat in the field of lexicography" (PMM).…

Samuel Johnson's 'A Dictionary of the English Language' is among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. First published on 15 April 1755, the dictionary offered comprehensive definitions and illustrative examples of usage.

First editions can be determined by the presence of certain misprints, as Johnson's Dictionary underwent numerous small alterations as later editions were printed. The first edition is also spread over two large, heavy volumes.