The Oxford Dictionary of English Proverbs

The Oxford Dictionary of English Proverbs, originally compiled by William George Smith and later extensively revised by Frank Percy Wilson, is a classic and authoritative reference work on English proverbs. This third edition, published by Oxford University Press, remains a cornerstone for scholars, collectors, and language enthusiasts. This comprehensive volume offers a detailed historical overview of English proverbs, tracing their origins and variations from earliest recorded use to modern times. Each entry is carefully documented with source references and illustrative quotations, following a scholarly approach similar to the Oxford English Dictionary. Proverbs are organized alphabetically by their main keyword, making it easy to explore themes and meanings. With approximately 900+ pages, this edition is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history, evolution, and cultural significance of English sayings. Whether used for academic research or personal interest, it stands as one of the most respected and in-depth proverb dictionaries ever published.