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Simon Winchester

The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary

In "The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary," Simon Winchester masterfully weaves together the history of the English language and the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), a monumental undertaking that spanned over seven decades. Winchester takes readers on a captivating journey, exploring the lives of the dictionary's creators, the challenges they faced, and the profound impact their work has had on our understanding of the English language. The narrative begins in the mid-19th century, when the concept of creating a comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of the English language was first conceived. Winchester introduces readers to the brilliant and eccentric minds behind the OED, including James Murray, the dictionary's primary editor, and the legion of volunteers who dedicated their lives to reading, categorizing, and defining millions of words. Winchester's engaging prose illuminates the painstaking process of compiling the OED, from the initial collection of quotations to the intricate system of word classification and the eventual publication of the dictionary's groundbreaking first edition in 1928. Along the way, readers gain fascinating insights into the evolution of the English language, the cultural and historical contexts that shaped it, and the enduring power of words to connect us all. "The Meaning of Everything" is more than just a history of the OED; it is a celebration of the richness and complexity of the English language and the extraordinary efforts of the individuals who sought to capture its essence. Winchester's meticulously researched and eloquently written account will captivate language enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of words. This engaging and enlightening book serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and our ceaseless quest to understand the world around us...