Oed

[Rowan]

I'm quite sure I've asked this question before, but I'm thinking it was perhaps before the "big move", so I'm asking again: does anyone have a physical copy or online access to the Oxford English Dictionary?

I'm searching for the earliest usage of the word 'disability'.

Thanks!

[annabel]

In England we have access to OED online by joining a library. There are loads more references but the earliest ones are:

Disability meaning 1): Lack of ability(to discharge any office or function); inability; weakness
1545 R. Ascham Toxophilus n.f. 27 : It be more through his own negligence for bicause he wyll not learne, than bicause any disabilitie, bicause he can not lerne

2) A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses or activities ... the fact or state of having such a condition:

1561 in A.F. Johnston & M. Rogerson REc. Early Eng Drama ...

[The] shirefes of this Citie have mad right humble request...to be spared of the sayd ryding on Corpus Christi day and Midsomar even, allegying sumdry impedymentes and disabilities

[Rowan]

Thank you Annabel.

[SGM]

[quote=""annabel""]In England we have access to OED online by joining a library. [/quote]

Hey, I didn't know about the library subscription for OED online. Thanks for that. I do use my library subscription for the National Biography and find it incredibly useful.

[annabel]

I'm in Torquay, Devon and Torbay library services do this so I hope it applies nationwide. I love my local library, they are so good at finding obscure books and everyone is helpful and friendly. They have an annual Agatha Christie season which is fun.