The Private Lives of English Words

The words of the English language constitute an incredible heritage, and every word has its own unique history. Originally published in 1984, The Private Lives of English Words tells the fascinating stories behind more than 400 words with a particularly interesting philological history. It describes their diverse origins and the intricate ways in which their meanings and forms have developed through the centuries. Based on the findings of linguistics, discussions of words in the entries are written to interest all lovers of words. In the explanations of how meanings of words have evolved, we find history and fancy, mythology and religion, cultural influences and the manners of society.

All in all, the book is a pleasant and easy-to-use resource for all who are interested in the vocabulary of English.

1001964180
The Private Lives of English Words

The words of the English language constitute an incredible heritage, and every word has its own unique history. Originally published in 1984, The Private Lives of English Words tells the fascinating stories behind more than 400 words with a particularly interesting philological history. It describes their diverse origins and the intricate ways in which their meanings and forms have developed through the centuries. Based on the findings of linguistics, discussions of words in the entries are written to interest all lovers of words. In the explanations of how meanings of words have evolved, we find history and fancy, mythology and religion, cultural influences and the manners of society.

All in all, the book is a pleasant and easy-to-use resource for all who are interested in the vocabulary of English.

69.99 Pre Order
The Private Lives of English Words

The Private Lives of English Words

The Private Lives of English Words

The Private Lives of English Words

eBook

$69.99 
Available for Pre-Order. This item will be released on September 1, 2025

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Overview

The words of the English language constitute an incredible heritage, and every word has its own unique history. Originally published in 1984, The Private Lives of English Words tells the fascinating stories behind more than 400 words with a particularly interesting philological history. It describes their diverse origins and the intricate ways in which their meanings and forms have developed through the centuries. Based on the findings of linguistics, discussions of words in the entries are written to interest all lovers of words. In the explanations of how meanings of words have evolved, we find history and fancy, mythology and religion, cultural influences and the manners of society.

All in all, the book is a pleasant and easy-to-use resource for all who are interested in the vocabulary of English.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781040418314
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Publication date: 09/01/2025
Series: Routledge Revivals
Sold by: Barnes & Noble
Format: eBook
Pages: 368
File size: 2 MB

About the Author

Louis Heller, Alexander Humez, Malcah Yaeger-Dror

Table of Contents

Foreword. Introduction. The Private Lives of English Words. Appendix I. Appendix II. Index.

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