c.1736- An Etymological English Dictionary: Being Also An Interpreter of Hard Words

By Nathan Bailey Edition: Likely 1736, 1737 or 1738 Printed in London; Most likely by T. Cox(who was known for printing editions of Bailey’s works) or for a consortium of booksellers including J. Darby, A. Bettesworth, T. Longman, et al. as noted in last page of book.  Introduction, Alphabet Tables, [unpaginated dictionary text]. Bound in contemporary full calf, red gilt-lettered spine label (“DICTIONARY”). Lacks the formal title page and dedication leaf, but retains the decorative internal title page and full “Introduction” at front. Light toning and expected age wear to textblock. An early to mid-18th century edition of Nathan Bailey’s influential Universal Etymological English Dictionary, first published in 1721 and expanded over numerous printings throughout the century. This edition includes the “Alphabets of the English, Saxon, Greek, and Hebrew Characters”, as well as the extensive introductory essay on the origins and evolution of the English language. Text printed in double columns with the long “s” used throughout. Issued as part of a joint venture by several prominent London booksellers—a common practice at the time to share the costs and profits of high-demand reference works. Though lacking a title page, this copy aligns with editions printed in the late 1730s, likely under the supervision of printer T. Cox. A solid, early example of one of the most influential English dictionaries before Samuel Johnson. Condition: Very Good Size: 5” x 7 3/4”