Early Dictionaries (16th - 18th Centuries)
* Robert Cawdrey's "A Table Alphabeticall" (1604): One of the first English dictionaries, this work included around 3,000 words and was mainly focused on providing explanations of unfamiliar or difficult words.
* Nathaniel Bailey's "An Universal Etymological English Dictionary" (1721): This influential dictionary featured a broader range of entries and was known for its etymological information.
* Samuel Johnson's "A Dictionary of the English Language" (1755): This monumental work is often regarded as the first truly comprehensive English dictionary. Johnson's dictionary established a standard for English vocabulary and usage, though its definitions are often quirky and insightful.
19th Century Dictionaries
* Noah Webster's "An American Dictionary of the English Language" (1828): This American dictionary, with its focus on American usage, played a significant role in standardizing American English.
* The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) (First edition published 1884-1928): A massive and highly respected dictionary, the OED is known for its historical and etymological information, as well as its comprehensive coverage of English vocabulary.
20th Century Dictionaries
* Webster's New International Dictionary (1909): A major update to Webster's dictionary, this edition introduced numerous innovations and became a standard reference work.
* Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary (1936): A more compact and accessible dictionary, this publication became extremely popular for students and general readers.
* The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (1969): This dictionary was notable for its usage panels, a group of experts who provided guidance on the evolving nature of English.
Other Notable Older Dictionaries:
* The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary (SOED): A concise version of the OED, suitable for general use.
* Chambers Dictionary: A comprehensive and reliable dictionary often used in the UK and other English-speaking countries.
* The Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology: A specialized dictionary focused on the origins of English words.
Remember that these are just a few examples. Numerous other dictionaries exist from various periods and publishers, offering different perspectives on the English language.
When researching older dictionaries, be aware of their historical context and potential biases. They can provide fascinating insights into the evolution of language, but their definitions and usage may differ from modern conventions.