The first edition of Dr. Ebenezer Cobham Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable was published in 1870. Subsequent editions of the original volume have been made throughout the times since, the 15th being published in 1995, to take account of new research and new words entering the language. The linguistic developments of the 20th century, however, have been so rapid and voluminous that a wholly 20th century edition was needed. This was first published in 1991 and, taking its cue from Dr. Brewer's wide-ranging and informed approach, set out to record the language that defines the contemporary age, reflecting all aspects of 20th century life and culture in over 8000 entries, ranging from Abominable Snowman to Zoo Daddy.