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OED (Oxford English Dictionary)

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Scope

An historical dictionary of the English language, covering the language from the earliest times to the present day. Shows the current meanings of words, and traces their development through time. Entries contain detailed etymological analysis, and are illustrated by quotations from a wide range of English language sources from around the world.

The online Dictionary contains the complete A to Z sequence of the 2nd Edition (1989), plus later additions. About the OED

Also includes an Archive section which includes texts of major historical significance to the Oxford English Dictionary. OED archived documents

Help & guidance

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