Johnson's dictionary of the English language, in miniature. Johnson's English dictionary in miniature; with the addition of several thousand words, and the pronunciation, on the basis of Walker. To which is subjoined, a concise heathen mythology, and numerous other useful tables ... Adapted for the use of schools. Eighth edition. Adapted by the Rev. Joseph Hamilton

Samuel Johnson’s original A Dictionary of the English Language, first published in 1755, revolutionized lexicography by providing a comprehensive guide to the English tongue. As the original folio was unwieldy and prohibitively expensive for general students, smaller, portable editions began to emerge. These miniature versions were designed to make Johnson’s prestige and methodology accessible to the growing educational market of the 19th century, serving as essential reference tools in schoolrooms.

This specific edition, revised by the Reverend Joseph Hamilton, represents the adaptation of Johnson’s work for school use. It integrated the phonetic principles established by John Walker, a prominent elocutionist of the time, to assist students with correct pronunciation. By appending tables of mythology and other useful data, the volume functioned as a compendium of knowledge, reflecting the pedagogical values of an era that prioritized standardized vocabulary and classical literacy.