The Oxford Dictionary of Slang
ISBN13: 9780198607632ISBN10: 0198607636
Paperback,
480 pages
Nov 2003,
In Stock
Price:
$16.95 (03)See more from the series
Description
Here, John Ayto has brought together over 10,000 slang words and phrases common to 20th-century English, to provide a comprehensive and highly engaging guide to the most outspoken corner of our language. Unlike most such dictionaries, this volume is organized thematically, with slang words gathered under such headings as "the body and its functions" or "sustenance and intoxication." Within each section, the words are listed chronologically, starting with the century's earliest words and phrases and progressing right through to the present day, thus illuminating the development of slang and colloquial language over the last hundred years. Word origins and other interesting features of usage are given wherever possible, as are illustrative quotations from a wide range of authors. A comprehensive A-Z index lists all words included in the dictionary, so you can find a particular word quickly. From "five-finger discount" to "forty-rod whiskey," this is an authoritative and up-to-date record of slang throughout the English-speaking world.Features
- Thematically arranged by chapter for easy browsing
- Words are arranged chronologically within themes to show how the language has changed
- Contains word origins, illustrative examples from literature, and an easy-to-use A-Z index
- Includes over 10,000 slang words and phrases
- By the author of the Oxford Dictionary of Modern Slang and the Oxford Dictionary of Rhyming Slang
About the Author(s)
John Ayto is a professional lexicographer and author.f His previous publications include The Oxford Dictionary of Modern Slang, The Oxford Diner's Dictionary, and A Gourmet's Guide: Food & Drink from A-Z. He lives in London.
