In the literature on English lexicography there have been few attempts at a systematic study of the history of popular dictionaries that have been around for many years in English-speaking countries. A dictionary like Chambers deserves special attention because of its long tradition that goes back to the nineteenth century. Although it has gone through numerous editions, its history has received little attention from scholars. The book traces the development of the Chambers Dictionary from its origins to the present time by comparing corresponding parts of successive editions of the dictionary. This comparative approach aims to determine major trends in the evolution of the dictionary. It will provide scholars and interested students with insights into the Chambers lexicographers' work, the goals they aimed to achieve, and the problems they had to face when revising the dictionary.
The series features monographs and edited volumes on the topics of lexicography and meta-lexicography. Works from the broader domain of lexicology are also included if they strengthen the theoretical, methodological and empirical basis of lexicography and meta-lexicography. The volumes focus on aspects of lexicography such as micro- and macrostructure, typology, history of the discipline, and application-oriented lexicographical documentation.
