The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary

When checking a word, I reach first for the Concise Oxford - because it's right in front of me on the desk. You can pick it up in one hand. If that doesn't give the answer, I go to the Shorter Oxford. This involves a trip to the bookcase, because it's in two volumes - and they're heavy. The term 'Shorter' is almost misleading, because this is a big, serious, scholarly work of reference. It's only shorter in being originally an abridged edition of the monumental Oxford English Dictionary. In recent editions however, the material draws on the OED's ongoing revision, as well as its own independent research program.The entries are slightly abbreviated, but still rich in historical etymology... Read more >>

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