This volume investigates the utility of merging standard lexicographical data with encyclopedic reference material to provide a comprehensive information resource. The editors, Judy Pearsall and Bill Trumble, utilize the established linguistic expertise of Oxford University Press to construct a hybrid text. By integrating traditional dictionary entries—covering spelling, pronunciation, and etymology—with broad-spectrum factual appendices, the work aims to serve as a singular reference point for general inquiry.

Experts and users frequently cite this text as a reliable, multi-purpose tool for academic and general reference needs. The integration of encyclopedic data within a dictionary format is noted for its efficiency in providing quick access to diverse information sets.