Oxford English Dictionary (OED)

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Simpson, J A; E S C Weiner; and Oxford University Press. Oxford English Dictionary. New York: Oxford University Press, 1989.

REF PE1625.O87 1989 VOL.1-20
Find in a library nearby: http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/17648714

While, with 20 large volumes and a reputation to match, this offering isn't exactly "hidden," it certainly is a gem. Unlike other dictionaries, the Oxford English Dictionary, fondly known as the OED, strives to be comprehensive and provides print examples of use over time. If you're a word geek, like me, this set is ambrosia. I find that our set is getting less use than in the past, probably due to extensive online resources (including those in Oxford Premium Reference, which is available to all Alaskans through the Digital Pipeline). It may also be due to changing cultural norms regarding acceptable usage of words, but that's a discussion for another time and place.