Books

London: J. F. and C. Rivington [et al.], 1785. Leather. Very Good Indeed. 11" by 9". Not Stated. A smart sixth edition of Johnson's dictionary of the English language, in contemporary leather binding. Complete in two volumes. Sixth edition. Originally published in 1755. With portrait frontispiece to volume one. Lacking the half title to volume I. No half title was issued for volume II. A dictionary of the English language, with etymological commentary, a history of the language, and a guide to English grammar. With illustrations of the different uses of word from the best writers of the time. Due to dissatisfaction with the dictionaries of the period, a collection of London bookseller's contracted Johnson to write a dictionary. It took him seven years to complete with only clerical assistance, and he went on to produced several revised editions during his life. Produced by Samuel Johnson, known as Dr. Johnson, an English writer who made lasting…

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.