It appeared 250 years ago this month, having been in the making for a decade, and it sold very well, despite the fact that it cost almost the equivalent of $1,000 today. Parts of it are still in use. What is it?

dejavucub4

The 1st english language dictionary? Apr 28 05, 11:18 AM

lanfranco

Well, it wasn't quite the first, but you are definitely on the right track. Apr 28 05, 11:22 AM

coolio_daniel_uk

translated bible? Apr 28 05, 12:38 PM

lanfranco

Nope. The first Bible in English, translated by John Wycliffe, appeared in the 14th century. As I said, dejavu is on the right track. Apr 28 05, 12:48 PM

kaylofgorons

I was going to guess a specific dictionary, but it wasn't dedicated until 1897 or something like that. The first encyclopedia? (too lazy to check spelling...) Apr 28 05, 12:57 PM

Arpeggionist

The Encyclopedia Britanica perhaps? No, wait. The largest dictionary in history, in the German language, compiled by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm (among others). Apr 28 05, 1:03 PM

TabbyTom

Samuel Johnson's Dictionary of the English Language. Apr 28 05, 1:06 PM

roach

Samuel Johnson's dictionary of the english language Apr 28 05, 1:09 PM

lanfranco

TT gets the yay, with a nod to roach. Although dictionaries of English had been published earlier, Johnson's was the first truly comprehensive effort. A substantial number of his definitions still appear in the OED. Though his definition of "lexicographer" as a "harmless drudge" is famous, I've always liked his entry for "patron": "Commonly a wretch who supports with insolence and is paid with flattery." http://newsfromrussia.com/science/2005/04/21/59328.html Apr 28 05, 2:12 PM