zoom_in Click to enlarge

Charles Richardson

▲ ▼

description Charles Richardson Overview

Charles Richardson (1775–1865) was a British educator and lexicographer best known for compiling the 1836 "New Dictionary of the English Language." His dictionary was distinguished by its reliance on historical quotations to illustrate word usage, a method that heavily influenced James Murray and the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary. Richardson believed that definitions should be derived from the historical context of literature rather than strict synonym lists. He was closely associated with the utilitarian philosophers Jeremy Bentham and James Mill.

help Charles Richardson FAQ

What is Charles Richardson famous for compiling?

Charles Richardson was a British lexicographer who compiled the 'New Dictionary of the English Language' in 1836. This monumental work was highly influential in the history of English literature and linguistics.

How did Charles Richardson's dictionary differ from previous ones?

Richardson pioneered the use of historical quotations to illustrate the changing meanings of words over time. Instead of merely writing a prescriptive definition, he provided excerpts from prominent authors to show contextual evolution.

Did Charles Richardson's work influence the Oxford English Dictionary?

Yes, his heavy use of historical chronologies and literary citations directly inspired Sir James Murray and the creators of the Oxford English Dictionary. His 1836 dictionary served as an early structural blueprint for the OED.

What philosophical ideas influenced Charles Richardson's lexicography?

Richardson was heavily influenced by the linguistic theories of John Horne Tooke. This led him to focus heavily on the etymology and historical evolution of words rather than strict, rigid definitions.

swap_horiz

Looking for Charles Richardson alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward