A Dictionary of Old Trades, Titles and Occupations (Reference)

In true `Call My Bluff' style, who knows what a mell man did, or a duffer, a ripator or a bummer? This dictionary contains almost 4000 old trades, titles and occupations, many of which have disappeared or simply gone out of fashion. A useful reference for those interested in social and local history. This expanded edition contains over 1000 new entries and some revision of terms appearing in the first edition which have new or alternative meanings.

John Titford explains the subject fully with his usual clarity and enthusiasm. Taking a step by step approach, he deals first with the history of surnames and of the languages which gave rise to them, followed by a series of surname surgeries and case studies that suggest various techniques for getting a name To yield up its meaning.