An accessible introduction to the subject, Lexicography: An Introduction provides a detailed overview of the history, types and contents of these essential references. Analyzing a variety of dictionaries: ones geared to native speakers, thematic ones and those on CD-ROM, Howard Jackson reveals the myriad of ways that dictionaries fulfill their dual function of describing the vocabulary of English and providing a useful reference source. This introduction contains an introduction to terms used in lexicography and offers suggestions for further reading. Ideal for all who want to learn how a dictionary creates knowledge and who want to know how a dictionary is created.