from A Dictionary of the English Language

Modern dictionaries and Samuel Johnson’s dictionary differ in important ways. For instance, modern dictionaries provide etymologies, or histories, for each word. The tone of the definitions is objective and neutral. Using an online dictionary, compare the definitions for lexicographer, nature, oats, patron, and smoke with the definitions in Johnson’s dictionary. How is your understanding of these words affected by your reading of the modern definitions? What additional benefits do you get from reading Johnson’s definitions? Explain why you think Johnson’s dictionary is still respected and valued, even in this age of the modern dictionary. Support your answer with details from the entries.