Dictionaries (Part 3 of 3). In order to properly understand the Constitution, we must know the meaning of the words to the average person at the time the Constitution was adopted. That’s why this week’s #FreedomFightingTool is two unique dictionaries. A Dictionary of the English Language by Samuel Johnson, 1709-1784 can be found at https://archive.org/details/johnsons_dictionary_1755/page/n1831/mode/2up and Websters 1828 Dictionary https://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/

Dictionaries (Part 2 of 3). When reading laws, rules, court documents, contracts, etc., it’s important to know the real meaning of the words being used. In the legal setting, the first place to find the relevant definition is the statute or rule involved. If reading a court order or opinion, that document may provide the definition itself. Otherwise, Black’s Law Dictionary is the primary external source to use in searching for legal definitions. However, for words not defined in any of these, courts next rely on Webster’s Dictionary as the standard. That’s why this week’s #FreedomFightingTool is Webster’s Dictionary.