This is a common problem in etymology and related reference works. Publications cite the earliest written reference that they are aware of. All any reference li

This is a common problem in etymology and related reference works. Publications cite the earliest written reference that they are aware of. All any reference like this can state is that N is the first publication date for a term in the sources in which they have looked. No one has time, resources, or access to verify all sources. Most reference publishers welcome it if you notify them of additional occurrences. It is also widely acknowledged that verbal usages of new words almost always precedes written references so there is a natural lag in that regard, as well.