Oxford English Dictionary, Second Edition, 20-volume set

The Oxford English Dictionary Second Edition is a 20-volume historical reference work tracing English usage through dated quotations. Its print format is designed for deep research rather than quick, space-saving lookup.

At a glance

The listing describes a 20-volume print edition with a historical focus on English word usage.
Definitions are accompanied by chronologically arranged quotations showing words in context.
The described entry features include International Phonetic Alphabet pronunciation, historical spelling variants, etymology and notes on usage and regional characteristics.

Price

£982.25Save 18%

Reference price: ~~£1,199.00~~

Price checked: 14 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Historical quotations can help readers trace changing meanings and usage rather than relying on a present-day definition alone.
Coverage described across literary, scholarly, technical and popular sources suits detailed language and reference research.

Cons

The listed 65.7 kg weight and large dimensions make this a substantial set that needs considerable space and careful placement.

Technical specifications

9 specifications

Publication details
Edition	2nd
Publisher	Clarendon Press
Publication date	30 Mar. 1989
Language	English
Print length	21728 pages
ISBN-10	0198611862
ISBN-13	978-0198611868

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	65.7 kg
Dimensions	101.6 x 48.3 x 121.9 cm

What to know before buying

Customer feedback mentions mixed reactions to value and volume size, including one report of receiving only one volume. Confirm the selected listing is for the complete 20-volume set before purchase. The separate online resource described in the listing is subscription-based and is not established as included with this print set.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Researchers and collectors seeking an extensive print reference on the history and development of English.
Readers who want quotations, etymologies and historical spelling information alongside definitions.

Less suited to

Buyers who need a compact, lightweight dictionary or mainly want fast everyday word lookups.
Anyone seeking online access as part of the set without first confirming subscription terms.

Oxford English Dictionary, Second Edition, 20-volume set · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

3.2 / 5 · 83 ratings

5 stars52%52%
4 stars4%4%
3 stars1%1%
2 stars2%2%
1 star41%41%

Customer feedback describes the work as unusually comprehensive and informative, with specific mention of Middle English, Latin and Greek etymologies. Opinions on value and volume size are mixed, including a report of receiving only one volume. That concern matters for a large, heavy set whose title specifies 20 volumes, so confirm the offered set is complete. The overall rating distribution is sharply divided, which cautions against treating the positive descriptions as a uniformly shared experience.

Positive themes

Customers praise the breadth of content and the amount of information.
Feedback highlights comprehensive coverage and etymological detail.

Negative themes

One customer reports receiving only one volume rather than the complete set.

Mixed feedback

Customers disagree about value for money and volume size.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in this edition?

The title identifies a 20-volume Second Edition print set. Customer feedback includes a report of receiving only one volume, so confirm the selected listing supplies the complete set.

What kind of information does the dictionary provide?

The listing describes definitions with chronological quotations, pronunciation using the International Phonetic Alphabet, historical spelling variants, etymologies and usage information.

Does this purchase include Oxford English Dictionary Online access?

The listing describes the online resource separately and says subscriptions are available. It does not confirm online access is included with this print set.