The Oxford Dictionary of Word Histories

by Glynnis Chantrell (Editor)

The Oxford Dictionary of Word Histories describes the origins and sense development of over 11,000 words in the English language. Well-known idioms such as "say it with flowers" are highlighted with the dates of their original use and how and when they came about. Colorful popular beliefs are
explored about the origins of words like "posh" and "snob," and insights are given into our social history revealed by language development such as the connection in a Roman soldier's mind of "salary" with salt. Throughout, boxed word-building elements show the various meanings of shared
"relationships" between words.

Genres: Reference, Language, History, Nonfiction, Dictionaries, Linguistics

576 pages, Paperback

First published October 18, 2002

Reviews

[Colin]

Fun with words! Another reference book I could just read for hours! I'm such a geek!

[Alex]

The Oxford Dictionary of Word Histories (2002)