Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D)
by Thomas Davidson (1856–1923)
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- Reading level: 8th & 9th grade
"Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D)" by Thomas Davidson is a comprehensive reference dictionary written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the English language, providing definitions, etymologies, technical terms, colloquialisms, and compound phrases that enrich vocabulary and understanding. The dictionary is aimed at users seeking a deeper knowledge of words from various fields, including literature and science, making it a valuable resource for students, writers, and language enthusiasts. The opening of Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary introduces the book's structure and purpose. It begins with a preface by the editor, Thomas Davidson, who explains his motivation and experience in compiling the work. He emphasizes the aim to include both contemporary vocabulary and historical usages from notable literary sources, as well as technical terms across different sciences. The preface also outlines the organization of the dictionary, the approach to phonetic pronunciation, and the complexities of English spelling and etymology, all important considerations for readers seeking to navigate the intricacies of the English language.
- English language · Dictionaries
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Transcriber's note: A few typographical errors have been corrected: they are listed at the end of the text.
In this version [=e] signifies "e macron"; [)e] "e breve"; [.e] "e with dot above"; and so forth.
LONDON: 47 Paternoster Row
W. & R. CHAMBERS, LIMITED
EDINBURGH: 339 High Street
1908
PREFACE.
This is the third English Dictionary which the present Editor has prepared, and he may therefore lay claim to an unusually prolonged apprenticeship to his trade. It is surely unnecessary for him to say that he believes this to be the best book of the three, and he can afford to rest content if the Courteous Reader receive it with the indulgence extended to his Library Dictionary, published in the spring of 1898. It is based upon that work, but will be found to possess many serviceable qualities of its own. It is not much less in content, and its greater relative portability is due to smaller type, to thinner paper, and still more to a rigorous compression and condensation in the definitions, by means of which room has been found for many additional words.
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About this edition
This free edition of Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Thomas Davidson comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #37683, released 2011-10-09. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Language & Communication, Encyclopedias/Dictionaries/Reference.
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