Oxford English Dictionary, The

Multi-volume English dictionary, which provides a detailed historical record of each word, with usage and senses illustrated by quotations. It is subject to continuous revision (and now computerization). Originally called the New English Dictionary on Historical Principles, it was first conceived by the Philological Society in 1858. The first part appeared in 1884 under the editorship of James Murray and the final volume appeared in 1928.

A supplementary volume was published in 1933, and four new supplementary volumes appeared from 1972–86, edited by R W Burchfield (1923– ). The 20-volume second edition, the New Oxford English Dictionary was published in 1989. Shortened and concise versions of the dictionary are also published.