The Word Detective: A Life in Words: From Serendipity to Selfie

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.

Title - The Word Detective: A Life in Words: From Serendipity to Selfie

Edition -

Author - John Simpson

ISBN 13 - 9781408706602

Imprint - Little, Brown

Publisher - Little, Brown Book Group

Date Published - 13/10/2016

Prize -

No. of pages -

Binding Type - Hardback

Dimensions - 174 x 242 x 34mm

Weight - 640 g

Languages - English