A Dictionary of the English Language: in which the words are deduced from their originals, and illustrated in their different significations by examples from the best writers. To which are prefixed, a history of the language, and an English grammar. The fifth edition. In two volumes. Johnson, Samuel. Published by W. & A. Strahan; J. F. & C. Rivington; etc., London, 1784.
2 vols. Folio. Half brown leather over brown buckram, spine decorated with gilt scrolls, gilt fleurettes, spine titles in gilt on red leather label; volume number and contents in gilt on black label, marbled endpapers; reinforced brown cloth hinges. Volume 1 has a small closed tear to title page along hinge line; Volume 2 endpaper has a neatly taped tear; endpapers slightly faded. Both volumes have water staining to outer top edge and upper page edges. Volume 1 is largely unaffected internally with a few wavy pages. The initial pages of Volume 2 have staining, brittle and crumbling paper from top edge to text block and margins; subsequent pages have only top edge staining which progressively lessens; later pages show just a fine line. (See pictures). Boards and binding are in very good condition; pages have light and sporadic foxing and absent of other markings. A handsome set even with its flaws.
A Dictionary of the English Language, sometimes published as Johnson’s Dictionary, was first published on 15 April 1755. It is among the most influential dictionaries in the history of the English language. Johnson died in 1784 and this is the last edition published in his lifetime. This is the final two-volume folio edition based on the fourth edition with Johnson’s final revisions.
