Synopses & Reviews
A noted lexicographer tells the life stories of thousands of words -- how, when, and where they originated, and how their meanings have changed and developed through the centuries. The words are arranged according to themes that include politics, religion, history, cooking, scientific names, proper names, and sports, as well as a roster of Greek and Latin prefixes. Filled with cultural history, Word Origins is as much entertainment as reference. Over 68,000 copies sold in previous Wings editions.
Synopsis
From a highly respected name in reference literature, an easy-to-access, dependable sourcebook on the origin and development of thousands of words, each word has been thoroughly checked by ranking linguists and the information is presented in a manner as entertaining as fiction, An Outlet bestseller in previous editions. 432 pages. 6 X 9.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 406-408) and index.