A New English Dictionary (1739, 4th edition)

An early but disbound copy of John Kersey's important dictionary

Author

Publisher

Printing Details

Fourth edition. Disbound (see below). 17 × 10.5cm, unpaginated [320pp].

Full title: A New English Dictionary: Or, a Compleat Collection of the Most Proper and Significant Words, and Terms of Art Commonly Used in the Language. With a Continued Short and Clear Exposition.

First published in 1702, Kersey's Dictionary was an important book in the history of English lexicography. Prior to this dictionary, most would concentrate on Latinate terms for the use of scholars. This dictionary recorded common, everyday words alongside specialised terms, and contained brief, direct definitions rather than encyclopedic entries. Kersey's work influenced Nathaniel Bailey and Samuel Johnson.

It is printed in triple columns, and the title page states it is for the benefit of "young Scholars, Tradesmen, Artificers, Foreigners, and the Female Sex."

Condition

Poor. The book is pretty much disbound. It lacks the front board, the rear board is detached and the leather spine has perished. The text block is a bit fragile and has split into three sections but the text is complete, and with gentle handling it is readable.

Select Shipping…United Kingdom +£3.90Europe +£13.50USA +£15.50Australia / New Zealand +£15.85Rest of the World +£15.00 

By clicking the Buy Now button you'll transfer the product information and shipping price in encrypted form over a secure connection to PayPal's server where you'll complete the transaction.