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Oxford Dictionary Of Word Origins (Oxford Quick Reference)
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Combining both accessibility and authority, The Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins describes the origins and development of over 3,000 words and phrases in the English language. The book draws on Oxford's unrivalled dictionary research program and language monitoring, and relates the fascinating stories behind many of our most curious terms and expressions in order to offer the reader a much more detailed explanation than can be found in a general English dictionary. Organized A-Z, the entries include first known use along with examples that illustrate the many faces of the particular word or phrase, from 'handsome' to 'bachelor' and 'cute' to 'baby', from 'pagan' to 'palaver' and 'toff' to 'torpedo'. Also featured are almost 20 special panels that cover expressions common in English but drawn from other languages, such as 'coffee', 'sugar', and 'candy' from Arabic or 'booze', 'brandy', and 'gin' (Dutch). This absorbing volume is useful for language students and enthusiasts, but also an intriguing read for any person interested in the development of the English language and of language development in general. It also includes an extended introduction on the history of the English language.

Series: Oxford Quick Reference

Paperback: 512 pages

Publisher: Oxford University Press; 2 edition (November 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0199547939

ISBN-13: 978-0199547937

Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 1.2 x 5.1 inches

Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #408,576 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #142 in Books > Reference > Words, Language & Grammar > Vocabulary, Slang & Word Lists > Word Lists #204 in Books > Reference > Catalogs & Directories #420 in Books > Reference > Words, Language & Grammar > Etymology

I own an older version and a friend of mine enjoyed it so much I bought 3 of Oxfords books to enjoy with him. Remember Ad Libs when you were a kid? These are much more fun to share, especially on long car rides.

This is a great reference book. Even if you're just curious about a word, you might addicted to this book.

This is a good Word Origin Dictionary and has come in handy when looking up words and where they come from.

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