English etymology; or, a derivative dictionary of the English language: in two alphabets, tracing the etymology of those English words, that are derived I. From the Greek, and Latin languages; II. From the Saxon, and other Northern tongues.
London: printed for G. Robinson, 1783. First and only edition, 4to, pp. [8], xlii, [2], unpaginated lexicon in double column, [30]; with a 6-p. list of subscribers and a full-page specimen of 5 different alphabets; contains a table of chronological events and an extensive word index; full contemporary tree calf, red morocco label on spine; joints cracked (cords holding), bottom of spine a little chipped, but all else very good. Ignoring Johnson, Lemon cites as his authorities Vossius, Spelman, Somner, Minsheu, Junius, Skinner, Verstegan, Ray, Nugent, Cleland and other etymologists. A handsome book, "well thought of in its day, though only curious and useless now ... [by] a man of great industry and much learning. The writer's view was that most English words were derived from the 'Greek as the radix,' notwithstanding the dialects which they may have passed through" (DNB). Alston V, 355; Kennedy 6230; Vancil, p. 146. Item #28110
Price: $1,250.00
