BOOK BRIEF

The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary

Simon Winchester
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The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary

Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

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Simon Winchester

The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary

Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 19th century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester explores the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary. It details the collaborative efforts and challenges faced by individuals involved in this monumental project, highlighting the dedication and perseverance required to document the English language comprehensively.

Informative

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

5,155 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Simon Winchester's The Meaning of Everything captivates with its detailed history of the OED's creation. Reviewers praise Winchester for weaving a rich narrative from exhaustive research. Some find the details overwhelming and pacing uneven, but the book is celebrated for illuminating the dedication of its contributors and the remarkable breadth of the dictionary project.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Meaning of Everything: The Story of the Oxford English Dictionary?

Fans of The Professor and the Madman or Word by Word will enjoy The Meaning of Everything. Ideal for those fascinated by lexicography, history, or the evolution of language, this book appeals to curious minds who appreciate meticulous research and the chronicles of monumental scholarly endeavors.

4.0

5,155 ratings

74%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 19th century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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