- Hardcover: 944 pages
- Publisher: Collins Reference; 1 edition (Sep 21 1995)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0062700847
- ISBN-13: 978-0062700841
- Product Dimensions: 25.4 x 18 x 6.7 cm
- Shipping Weight: 1.8 Kg
- Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
- Amazon Bestsellers Rank: #341,542 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
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Product Details |
Product Description
Review
"In quantitative terms--number of entries and fullness of treatment--the Barnhart dictionary appears to be the best etymological work now availablle." -- -- Language
"[A] combination of readability with scholarship...of exceptional quality..." -- -- American Library Association Reference Books Bulletin
"[A] combination of readability with scholarship...of exceptional quality..." -- -- American Library Association Reference Books Bulletin
Book Description
As all lovers of language know, words are the source of our very understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Often, however, our use of language is so automatic that we neglect to consider where those words came from and what they assume. What are the implications, beyond the simple dictionary definitions, of using words such as privilege, hysteria, seminal, and gyp?
Browsing through the pages of The Barhart Concise Dictionary of Etymology is likeexploring the historical, political, and rhetorical wonderland of our linguistic heritage. We see the evolution ofideas, as rootword connections that now seem arbitrary are traced to schools of thought from the past. We also find an opportunity to examine how the sometimes backwards, sometimes hilarious, and sometimes illuminating ideologies built into our language affect our modern thinking.
Written in a fresh, accessible style, this book provides the derivations of over 21,000 English-language words without resorting to the use of abbreviations, symbols, or technical terminology. Drawing on the most current American scholarship, and focusing onthe core words in contemporary English, The Barnhart Concise Dictionary of Etymology is both a diverting browse and a thinking person's Bible.
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Customer Reviews
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Most helpful customer reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
More than complete...a wonderful reference!!!,
By A Customer
This review is from: Barnhart Concise Dictionary Of Etymology (Hardcover)
Completetly satisfied wih this purchase! A reference I will go back to time and time again even if just for casual perusal. This dictionary should be on everyone's bookshelf. Period.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great resource for the general reader/writer,
By Carlos (NYC) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Barnhart Concise Dictionary Of Etymology (Hardcover)
While there are plenty much more in-depth works for the specialists among us, I've found the Barnhart a great addition to my home library. Comprehensive for a one-volume work, attractive design, well-made (no binding issues here), and great for browsing.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Barnhart's... The Life of Your Next Party!,
By britlitgal (PA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Barnhart Concise Dictionary Of Etymology (Hardcover)
Barnhart's is a word-lover's dream. I enjoy taking it off the shelf and flipping aimlessly to a page, just to see what I'll learn next. As a reference it is very useful and thorough (although there are no pronunciation guides, as in a normal dictionary). As interesting reading, it is even more promising. Learn the history of such words as: freckle, pagoda, and carcass! One drawback: it's just not very portable. If Barnhart's is to be your constant companion, check to see if there's a paperback or desk size available.
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