Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins

This comprehensive A-Z guide delves into the origins of over 3,000 English words, featuring their first known uses, related terms, and recent additions, making it a valuable resource for language enthusiasts.

The Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins offers an engaging A-Z exploration of the history and evolution of over 3,000 English words. Drawing from Oxford's extensive dictionary research and language monitoring, this resource uncovers the fascinating and often unexpected stories behind some of the most commonly used terms and phrases in the English language.

In addition to detailed entries that include the first recorded use of each word, the dictionary provides examples, related terms, and insights into their etymological roots. The book features 22 special panels that overview various topics, five of which are newly introduced, covering subjects such as words from Oceania, word blends, eponyms, and acronyms. This updated edition also incorporates recent additions to the English lexicon, including terms like emoji, mansplain, meeple, meme, and spam, reflecting the dynamic nature of language.

This dictionary serves not only as a valuable resource for language students and enthusiasts but also as an intriguing read for anyone interested in the broader development of the English language. The extended introduction offers a comprehensive overview of the history of English, setting the stage for the exploration of its words. Overall, the Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins is a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of language, revealing the stories that shape our communication today.