The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a critical reference work that has shaped the study of the English language. The journey toward its first publication began in 1857 with the foundation of the Philological Society, which aimed to rectify the inadequacies in existing English dictionaries. They called for a comprehensive dictionary that thoroughly documented the language's vocabulary, usage, and historical context. In response to this initiative, James Murray was appointed in 1879 to oversee the monumental project, which would take decades to complete.

The first volume, covering entries from A to Ant, was launched in a ceremony in Oxford. It featured innovative methodologies for lexicography, including collecting citations from a myriad of sources. These citations provided context to each word, illustrating usage over time and helping to convey nuances unavailable in previous dictionaries. This approach marked a significant advancement in dictionary-making and set a standard for subsequent lexical projects.

The publication of this volume was celebrated not just for its content but also for its academic rigor. It required contributions from volunteer readers and scholars from various universities, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the endeavor. The OED's publication had lasting implications for linguistics, literature, and education by establishing a definitive resource for authors, educators, and students. The dictionary became an authoritative guide that would evolve with the language, with subsequent volumes and updates continuing to reflect changes in usage and meaning throughout the years.