A Concise Dictionary of Middle English from A.D. 1150 to 1580

This handy reference gathers the core vocabulary of Middle English, spanning the period from 1150 to 1580, into a single, alphabetically arranged guide. Compiled by two seasoned scholars, it selects the most representative spellings found in the works of Chaucer, Piers Plowman and their contemporaries, while also highlighting the French influence that shaped the language. The entries give concise definitions, etymologies, and point to the original passages where each word appears.

The layout mirrors the original sources, using italics and bold to signal special usage, and includes a clear system of underlining explained in the introductory notes. Each lemma is linked to a set of inexpensive Clarendon Press glossaries, allowing listeners to locate the full context without having to own numerous costly editions. Whether you are a student tackling a medieval text or a curious reader exploring the roots of modern English, this dictionary offers an efficient bridge to the language of the Middle Ages.