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Nathan Bailey - Lexicographer
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Nathan Bailey

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Nathan Bailey (died 1742) was an English lexicographer and schoolmaster whose dictionaries were the most popular English-language reference works of the early 18th century. His Universal Etymological English Dictionary, first published in 1721, was notable for its comprehensive word entries and etymological approach. Bailey's work served as a primary source for Samuel Johnson's dictionary of 1755 and remained influential in English lexicography for decades.

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Who was Nathan Bailey?

Nathan Bailey was an English lexicographer and schoolmaster who died in 1742. His dictionaries became some of the most popular English-language reference works of the early 18th century.

What is Nathan Bailey’s Universal Etymological English Dictionary?

It was a dictionary first published in 1721. The work was notable for its broad coverage of English words and its attention to etymology.

Why was Nathan Bailey’s dictionary important?

Bailey’s dictionaries were widely used during the early 18th century. His Universal Etymological English Dictionary helped make detailed word origins and definitions available to a broad English-speaking readership.

Was Nathan Bailey a teacher as well as a lexicographer?

Yes, Nathan Bailey worked as a schoolmaster as well as compiling dictionaries. He died in 1742 after producing reference works that were influential in his period.

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