The word detective : a life in words : from serendipity to selfie / John Simpson.

Author
Simpson, J. A., 1953- [Browse]
Format
Book
Language
English
Published/​Created
  • London : Little, Brown, 2016.
  • ©2016
Description
xvi, 366 pages ; 24 cm

Availability

Copies in the Library

Location Call Number Status Location Service Notes
Firestone Library - Stacks PE64.S46 A3 2016b Browse related items Request

    Details

    Subject(s)
    Summary note
    Language is always changing. No one knows where it is going but the best way to future-cast is to look at the past. John Simpson animates for us a tradition of researching and editing, showing us both the technical lexicography needed to understand a word, and the careful poetry needed to construct its definition. He challenges both the idea that dictionaries are definitive, and the notion that language is falling apart. With a sense of humour, an ability to laugh at bureaucracy and an inclination to question the status quo, John Simpson gives life to the colourful characters at the OED and to the English language itself. He splices his stories with entertaining and erudite diversions into the history and origin of words such as 'kangaroo', 'hot-dog' , 'pommie', 'bicycle' , not ignoring those swearwords often classed as 'Anglo-Saxon' ! The book will speak to anyone who uses a dictionary, 'word people' , history lovers, students and parents.
    Notes
    Includes index.
    ISBN
    • 9781408706602 ((hardback))
    • 1408706601 ((hardback))
    • 9781408706732 (paperback)
    • 1408706733 (paperback)
    OCLC
    928778396
    Statement on language in description
    Princeton University Library aims to describe library materials in a manner that is respectful to the individuals and communities who create, use, and are represented in the collections we manage. Read more...
    Other views
    Staff view

    Supplementary Information