The Oxford Dictionary of Word Histories (Oxford Quick Reference)

Chantrell, Glynnis

ISBN 10: 0198608934 / ISBN 13: 9780198608936

Published by Oxford University Press (edition ), 2004

About this Item

It's a well-cared-for item that has seen limited use. The item may show minor signs of wear. All the text is legible, with all pages included. It may have slight markings and/or highlighting.

Seller Inventory # 0198608934-11-1

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Oxford Dictionary of Word Histories (Oxford Quick Reference)
• Publisher: Oxford University Press (edition )
• Publication Date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198608934
• ISBN 13: 9780198608936
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

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.

About the Author

Glynnis Chantrell is Senior Editor in the English Language Teaching department at OUP. For several years she was Senior Editor in the Dictionaries department, working on many books including the Concise Oxford Dictionary (9th edn), and the New Oxford Dictionary of English (responsible for Word Histories). Glynnis taught modern languges for many years, and is multi-lingual. She has taught at every level, including adults.