A Dictionary of the American Language

An American Dictionary of the English Language was a two-volume dictionary published in 1828 by American lexicographer Noah Webster. Webster began this work in 1807 and completed it in 1824–25, creating a lexicon with 12,000 words and 30,000 to 40,000 definitions not previously found in other dictionaries. The dictionary was based on the principle that word usage should evolve from spoken language, leading to criticism for its "Americanisms," or unconventional spelling and usage preferences, as well as for including nonliterary words, particularly technical terms. Despite criticism, the dictionary sold well initially. Webster is often considered the father of American English, championing spelling changes that contributed to the distinctiveness of American English.123