Johnsonian

[ jon-soh-nee-uhn ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of Samuel Johnson or his works.
2. having the quality of Johnsonese.

noun

1. a person who writes in the Johnsonian style.
2. a teacher or critic who specializes in the works of Samuel Johnson.

Johnsonian

/ dʒɒnˈsəʊnɪən /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of Samuel Johnson, his works, or his style of writing

Other Words From

• John·soni·an·ism noun
• John·soni·an·ly adverb
• post-John·soni·an adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Johnsonian¹

First recorded in 1785–95; Johnson + -ian

Example Sentences

The big reviews, especially the quarterlies, have always been the natural home of Johnsonian study.

From Project Gutenberg

In this, of course, he is following Hume, though he applies the Johnsonian argument to Berkeley's immaterialism.

From Project Gutenberg

His parody of Johnson's later style is one of the very best of the multitude of Johnsonian imitations.

From Project Gutenberg

Sir, she said, in true Johnsonian style, what height should a mastiff dog attain at the age of six months?

From Project Gutenberg

My argument would be of the Johnsonian kind: if it is not by G., who the devil is it by?

From Project Gutenberg