Johnson's Dictionary

The Dictionary of the English Language

"In 1755, Johnson's Dictionary appeared in two large folio volumes. It represented about nine years of work, done almost single-handedly — Johnson had only the assistance of a few amanuenses to copy out the quotations he marked. While he worked on the Dictionary, he also produced the Rambler and his contributions to the Adventurer."

Words count

"Samuel Johnson's Dictionary was published 250 years ago this month. Beryl Bainbridge describes how a failed teacher and celebrated 'hack' worked for nine years in a London garret to redefine the English language - and his reputation."

A Dictionary of the English Language

"Published on 15 April 1755 and written by Samuel Johnson, A Dictionary of the English Language, sometimes published as Johnson's Dictionary, is among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language."