A Dictionary of the English Language

London: Black, Young and Young, 1831-2. Leather. Very Good. 11" by 8.5". None. An attractive first UK edition of this famous dictionary, in a uniform leather binding. The first UK edition, reprinted by E H Barker from a copy communicated by the author and containing manuscript corrections and additions. Complete in two volumes. 'Intended to exhibit I. The origin and affinities of every English word. II. The orthography and the pronunciation of words. III. Accurate and discriminating definitions. To which are prefixed an introductory dissertation on the origin, history, and connection of the languages of western Asia and of Europe; and a concise grammar.' With an ink inscription that states 'Given to Wm Layton Lowndes' who has charmingly unabbreviated some column heading works in the text. Webster's Dictionary, which first appeared in 1828 in America, has remained the standard dictionary in the United States. Webster's Dictionary sought to differentiate itself from the standard English dictionary of Dr Johnson, and adapted his entries for American English. Originally, Webster's dictionary did not sell well until Webster reduced the price front the original $20 to $15. Rebacked in a calf binding with original boards preserved. With contrasting spine labels. Endpapers renewed. Externally, boards a trifle rubbed particularly to rear of volume II, with surface leather loss. Light rubbing to the spines. Creasing to endpapers. Internally, firmly bound. Pages bright and generally clean with occasional light spotting in places. Ink inscription and offsetting from a former bookplate to front blank. Some mild age toning in places. Some column heading works between A-B and J-N have been unabbreviated in a neat contemporary copperplate handwriting. Very Good