Words and meaning

What does a word mean? Using the dictionary gives you the definition as set at that time and place when the dictionary was published. We can think of words that used to mean one thing but now are totally different.

The Oxford Dictionary is noted as a Historical Dictionary of the English language.

"The Oxford English Dictionary is the accepted authority on the evolution of the English language over the last millennium." The OED gives definitions, etymological analysis, and quotations to demonstrate the use of words in the English language over time.

The web-based version of the OED include all information contained in the print counterpart plus at least 1,000 new and revised entries each quarter.

So what does that word mean? Or what did it mean?
You can access the Oxford Dictionary through GALILEO. The current password is available from your Geogria Librarian.