History of Dictionary in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 20, 2025

A dictionary is a reference work containing lexemes from one or more languages, typically arranged alphabetically. It provides information about each word, such as its definition, usage, etymology, pronunciation, and translations. Dictionaries serve as lexicographical resources showcasing inter-relationships between lexical data, aiding in language understanding and communication.

1928: Oxford English Dictionary First Edition Release

In 1928, the complete ten-volume first edition of the Oxford English Dictionary was released.

1961: Controversy over Webster's Third New International Dictionary

In 1961, controversy over the lack of usage advice in the Webster's Third New International Dictionary spurred publication of another dictionary.

1961: Deutsches Wörterbuch Completion

In 1961, the Deutsches Wörterbuch by the Brothers Grimm was completed.

1964: Merriam-Webster acquired by Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1964, Merriam-Webster was acquired by Encyclopedia Britannica.

1969: The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language Publication

In 1969, The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, the first dictionary to use corpus linguistics, was published.

1998: Woordenboek der Nederlandsche Taal Completion

In 1998, the Woordenboek der Nederlandsche Taal was completed, it started in 1863.

2013: David Skinner on online dictionaries

In 2013, David Skinner noted the increasing use of online dictionaries and the types of words people were looking up.

2021: Dictionnaire de l'Académie française

In 2021, the Dictionnaire de l'Académie française, which was first published in 1694, is still being published, with the ninth edition not yet complete.