Where Words Come from: A Dictionary of Word Origins Contributor(s): Sedgwick, Fred (Author) |
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ISBN: 1847062741 ISBN-13: 9781847062741 Publisher: Continuum OUR PRICE: $30.64 Product Type: Paperback Published: July 2009 Annotation: An invaluable guide to the fascinating origins of everyday words crafted into pithy annecdotes and facts. |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Language Arts & Disciplines | Linguistics - General |
Dewey: 422.03 |
Physical Information: 0.67" H x 6.04" W x 7.73" (0.55 lbs) 224 pages |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: Did you know that 'aardvark' comes from the South African for 'earth pig'? Or that 'assassin' actually comes from the Arabic for 'smoker of hashish'? This book explains why 'bungalow' comes from Hindi and what exactly 'hello' is short for. It is an invaluable guide to the fascinating origins of everyday words. There are literally tens of thousands of English words with entertaining and engaging stories behind them. Tackling the topic in an anecdotal and yet thorough manner, Fred Sedgwick's pithy, interesting, upbeat and approachable Where Words Come From is the etymological dictionary for everyone, a book to inspire wonder, debate and laughter. |
Contributor Bio(s): Sedgwick, Fred: - Fred Sedgwick is a poet, former headteacher and author of many books in the areas of literature, expressive arts, education and creativity. |