how to cite the oxford dictionary mla

2 min read 17-01-2025

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is a treasure trove of linguistic information, a crucial resource for researchers and writers alike. Knowing how to properly cite the OED in your academic work, specifically using MLA format, is essential to avoid plagiarism and maintain academic integrity. This guide will walk you through the process.

Understanding MLA Citation Basics

Before delving into OED citations, let's briefly review the fundamental elements of MLA style. MLA (Modern Language Association) style emphasizes brevity and clarity. Citations typically include the author (if known), the title of the work, publication information, and the page number(s). For online sources, a URL and access date are also crucial.

Citing the Oxford English Dictionary: Entry vs. Online Version

The way you cite the OED depends on whether you're using the print version or the online version.

Citing a Print Entry of the Oxford English Dictionary

For a print edition, your citation will look like this:

"Word." The Oxford English Dictionary. 2nd ed., Oxford University Press, year of publication, page number(s).

Example:

"Run." The Oxford English Dictionary. 2nd ed., Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 567-572.

Key Elements:

"Word": The specific word you're defining. Use quotation marks.
The Oxford English Dictionary: The title of the dictionary (italicized).
2nd ed.: Specify the edition (if applicable). The third edition is currently ongoing and entries may be found in various stages of completion. Indicate if you are using a specific volume.
Oxford University Press: The publisher.
year of publication: The year the edition was published. If accessing an older edition, you may need to research the publication date.
page number(s): The page(s) where the entry is found. Use "pp." for multiple pages.

Citing the Oxford English Dictionary Online

The online version requires slightly different information. Note that the OED website is updated regularly, so the exact formatting might change slightly over time.

"Word." Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, date accessed, URL.

Example:

"Serendipity." Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, 15 Oct. 2023, www.oed.com/view/Entry/168442.

Key Elements:

"Word": The word being defined (in quotation marks).
Oxford English Dictionary: The title (italicized).
Oxford University Press: The publisher.
Date Accessed: The date you consulted the online entry (use a standard date format: Day Month Year).
URL: The direct URL to the specific dictionary entry. This is crucial for verifiability.

Handling Multiple Entries or Definitions

If you're referencing multiple definitions of a single word within a single entry, list the definition number after the word and before the closing quotation mark in both print and online citation.

Example (Print):

"Run," def. 2b. The Oxford English Dictionary. 2nd ed., Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 567-572.

Example (Online):

"Run," def. 2b. Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, 15 Oct. 2023, www.oed.com/view/Entry/168442.

Why Accurate Citation Matters

Precise citation is paramount. It gives credit where it's due, allows readers to verify your sources, and helps you avoid accusations of plagiarism. By following these guidelines, you can confidently integrate OED references into your academic papers.

Further Resources

For the most up-to-date information and detailed guidance, consult the official MLA Handbook. The MLA website also provides valuable resources.

Remember to always double-check your citations before submitting your work. A small error in citation can have significant consequences.