variorum

Definition

An edition of a written work (especially the complete works of a classical writer) showing the notes and readings of a variety of different editors or commentators.

Etymology

From Latin variōrum, genitive plural masculine of varius (“various”), in the phrase editio cum notis variorum (“edition with various notes”).

Example Sentences

• "Johnson set out to produce a variorum, compiling and summarising the history of Shakespearean emendation and annotation"
• "The walls of the narrow hallway are covered with paintings, including several by William Burroughs, made during Burroughs's London phase, when Miles took on archival duties and compiled a bibliography of his work; he has also edited a variorum edition of Allen Ginsberg's Howl."