About Us
We’ve been advancing language solutions for over 150 years, and we’re just getting started.
Our story is just beginning…
Oxford Languages is committed to unlocking the power of language for learning and for life.
Our world-class language research programme builds on over 150 years of experience and technological innovation to deliver authoritative, evidence-based content in more than 60 languages.
From bespoke language datasets to self-service APIs to our flagship Oxford English Dictionary, all Oxford Languages content is uniquely curated and delivered by our expert team of lexicographers, linguists, and language technologists to the highest of standards.
We bring this unparalleled expertise to partnerships across the globe as we work with like-minded innovators to advance learning and communication for future generations.
Trusted by big tech, academic institutions, and local community initiatives alike, our language data is at the forefront of global communication, powering the products, research, and projects that are making language knowledge available to all.
Our mission
We’ve been at the forefront of language innovation for over a century and a half.
Starting with printed dictionaries, we now empower global platforms with world-renowned lexical data.
Behind the brand, there’s a team of experts, passionate about making a difference.
Our story
We believe in the transformative power of language.
For over 150 years, we’ve been on a mission to advance language knowledge and make it accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Our story began in the mid-19th century when a group of scholars from the Philological Society of London, set out to document the entire English language. This ambitious project led to the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), a ground-breaking work that’s redefined how language is studied. It took 71 years of painstaking research and collaboration, but the result was a ten-volume masterpiece that captured the richness and complexity of the English language like never before. The OED was more than just a dictionary; it was a revolutionary approach to understanding language.
By gathering real-life evidence of words in use from people all over the world, we created a living record of how language evolves. This innovative spirit became the foundation of Oxford Languages and has driven us to explore new frontiers in language research ever since. Today, our work goes far beyond the OED. We’ve expanded our expertise to cover over 60 languages, providing high-quality lexical data in formats that meet the needs of a global, digital world. From online dictionaries and data solutions to our Oxford Dictionaries API, we support everyone – from researchers at Universities to industry leading tech giants used by millions every day.
Champions of language innovation
Oxford Languages has a long history of excellence, and it’s all down to the people behind our brand. From industry-leading lexicographers to expert product and data teams, we’re proud to be unlocking the power of language for all.
FAQs
Are you a part of Oxford University Press?
Yes, Oxford Languages is an integral part of Oxford University Press, a department of the University of Oxford. We are dedicated to developing world-class lexical resources and are guided by the same commitment to excellence that defines the University.
Where do you source your language data from?
We source our language data from a combination of world-renowned institutions and our team of expert in-house lexicographers. As part of Oxford University Press, we have unique access to a vast network of academic and linguistic resources, ensuring that our data is comprehensive, accurate, and reflective of real-world language use. Our in-house lexicographers meticulously analyze and curate this data to maintain the highest standards of lexical integrity.
What makes Oxford Languages unique?
What sets us apart is our commitment to making world-renowned lexical data accessible to everyone – from FTSE100 companies to start-ups and university researchers. Our mission is to unlock the power of language for all, ensuring that even smaller companies can leverage our resources to make a meaningful impact for their users. We’re not just about providing data; we’re about building lasting relationships. Our dedicated Customer Success team is passionate about working closely with our customers to ensure it’s more than just a transaction – it’s an ongoing relationship.
What industries do you serve?
We serve a wide range of industries, from technology and publishing to finance, healthcare, and beyond. Our lexical data is designed to meet the needs of any sector that relies on accurate, comprehensive language resources. Whether you’re developing AI, enhancing digital content, or conducting research, our data is versatile enough to support every industry, helping businesses and institutions of all sizes unlock the power of language for their users.