"Formulation of Definitions in the Dictionary Tāj al-ʿArūs min Jawāhir al-Qāmūs by Al-Zabidi: Chapter of the Letter Jīm as a Model"

Abstract

This research addresses the formulation of definitions in Al-Zabidi's dictionary Tāj al-ʿArūs, focusing on the chapter of the letter Jīm as a model. The definitions in the dictionary are linked to the formal aspects of words and their linguistic meanings. Understanding the meaning of a word requires examining its contexts and usages within the language environment, tracking its general meaning, and analyzing its semantic transformations.

The study is divided into two main sections: 1. The first explores the structure of definitions in the dictionary. 2. The second investigates the methods used to assist in their formulation.

The research reveals a diversity of definition types and highlights Al-Zabidi's reliance on context and linguistic examples to define the words of the linguistic material. Al-Zabidi diligently documented words associated with the linguistic root as found in earlier dictionaries, as well as words used in the linguistic environment of his time. Additionally, he included foreign words that contained the letters of the linguistic root, occasionally dedicating independent entries to such words, even when they did not originate from any Arabic linguistic root.

The research recommends further study of the definitions and their types in the dictionary to develop a modern linguistic dictionary that meets contemporary needs and requirements, aligns with modern advancements, and adheres to the standards of lexicographic practice.