Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary

The "Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary" is a comprehensive reference book published by Merriam-Webster, Inc. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Publication Details

• Publication Date: The ninth edition was published in 1983, with some sources indicating a 1989 publication date for the same edition.
• Publisher: Merriam-Webster, Inc.
• Location: Springfield, Massachusetts.

Key Features

• Entries and Definitions: The dictionary contains almost 160,000 entries and 200,000 definitions, providing a vast array of words and their meanings.
• Historical Usage: It includes historical information about word usage, such as the dates when certain words entered the language and their evolution over time. This feature is unique to Merriam-Webster dictionaries and is made possible by the company's extensive archives of over 13,000,000 citations.
• Multisense Words: The dictionary lists senses of multisense words in historical order, with the first entered sense being the oldest. This helps users understand the historical context of word meanings.

Physical Description

• Cover: The dictionary typically has a red cover with gold lettering on the spine and cover, although specific physical descriptions can vary.
• Dimensions: The dimensions of the dictionary are approximately 9 13/16 × 7 1/2 × 2 3/8 inches (25 × 19 × 6 cm).

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available in the sources provided, the book is part of a well-respected series by Merriam-Webster, known for its authoritative and comprehensive coverage of the English language.

Availability

The book is available in various formats, including hardcover, and can be found in used bookstores and online marketplaces. It has been widely used in educational settings and by individuals seeking a reliable reference for English language usage.

Ownership and Collection

A specific copy of the dictionary is owned by Jim Vance and is part of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture collection, highlighting its significance in educational and cultural contexts.

In summary, "Webster's Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary" is a seminal reference work that offers extensive coverage of the English language, including historical usage and authoritative definitions. Its unique features and comprehensive entries make it a valuable resource for scholars, students, and language enthusiasts alike.