The Oxford English Dictionary (as a reference)

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a comprehensive reference work that provides detailed definitions, origins, and usage examples for words in the English language. It traces the history of words, illustrating how their meanings and pronunciations have evolved over time. The OED is respected for its scholarly approach, including citations from literature and historical texts, making it a vital resource for researchers, writers, and anyone interested in the nuances of the English language. It serves as an authoritative guide for understanding both common and obscure English words.