Merriam

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Merriam is a renowned publishing company that specializes in dictionaries and reference books. Founded in 1831 by brothers George and Charles Merriam, the company has become a leading authority in the field of lexicography.

History

The Merriam brothers started their publishing venture in Springfield, Massachusetts. Their first major project was the publication of A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language in 1847. This dictionary gained popularity due to its innovative features, such as the inclusion of synonyms and usage examples.

In 1848, the Merriam brothers acquired the rights to Noah Webster's An American Dictionary of the English Language. They revised and expanded the dictionary, publishing it as Webster's Dictionary in 1849. This edition became widely recognized as the standard reference for American English.

Over the years, Merriam has continued to release updated editions of Webster's Dictionary, incorporating new words and reflecting changes in the English language. The company has also expanded its range of publications to include specialized dictionaries, thesauruses, and language reference books.

Products

Merriam is best known for its flagship publication, Webster's Dictionary. This comprehensive dictionary provides definitions, pronunciations, etymologies, and usage examples for a wide range of words. It is widely used by students, writers, and language enthusiasts.

In addition to Webster's Dictionary, Merriam offers various other dictionaries tailored to specific needs. These include Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, which is designed for college students and professionals, and Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary, which provides simplified definitions for English language learners.

Merriam also publishes the Merriam-Webster Thesaurus, a comprehensive reference for synonyms and antonyms. This resource helps writers and speakers find alternative words and expand their vocabulary.

Online Presence

Merriam has embraced the digital age and offers its dictionaries and reference materials online. The company's website provides free access to an extensive online dictionary, thesaurus, and other language resources. Users can search for words, explore definitions, and access language-related articles and quizzes.

The online platform also includes additional features, such as audio pronunciations, word games, and a word of the day. Merriam's online presence has made its resources easily accessible to a global audience, further solidifying its position as a leading authority in lexicography.

Legacy

Merriam's contributions to the field of lexicography have had a lasting impact on the English language. The company's dictionaries have become synonymous with quality and accuracy, and their definitions are widely trusted by scholars, writers, and language professionals.

The name "Merriam" has become a household name, representing a reliable source of linguistic knowledge. The company's commitment to providing comprehensive and up-to-date language resources has made it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to understand and use the English language effectively.