|
' {) j0 t' p% z- X& U
6 Z2 _& |3 n# x5 X: X9 ]2 x2 K
- https://www.google.com/doodles/samuel-johnsons-308th-birthday; r* V7 t+ t" O* ^6 v
6 d/ W; u" d, A. i
If you wanted to know what the word 'lexicographer' means today, you might Google it. If you fancy a throwback however, you might grab a dictionary. Today’s Doodle celebrates the 308th birthday of British lexicographer – a person who compiles dictionaries – Samuel Johnson.1 t% W; G. ~ J
/ W3 Z& x% A5 U/ @+ a6 k
Samuel Johnson published A Dictionary of the English Language in 1755 after 9 years of work. It was described as “one of the greatest single achievements of scholarship,” and had a far-reaching effect on modern English. It was “colossal” at nearly 18 inches tall! Johnson’s was the premier English dictionary until the publication of the Oxford English Dictionary 150 years later. g* m2 w0 S- I7 `8 n
1 f# b- n& a- ^( j( Y/ ]Johnson was also a poet, essayist, critic, biographer and editor. Johnson’s dictionary was more than just a word list: his work provided a vast understanding of 18th century's language and culture. His lasting contributions guaranteed him a place in literary history.$ Q z( f2 h' ?" e- E' f
0 f3 Z- q) Z2 `
Today we pay homage to this pioneer lexicographer who dedicated years to his craft.
+ C' S3 M9 G; U' o! V; \
: `' U- W( z# _) ADoodle by Sophie Diao $ W7 Z) l/ @7 |0 t0 G9 w1 X; A
6 u& L# r# Z- D
4 h2 @ P5 w0 |/ p |
|