Dictionary of Word Origins: The Histories of More Than 8,000 English-Language Words

The book I got was used, but in very good condition. I can tell it is used because it has names of previous owners. I knew it was used when I ordered it. It costs less that way. I have too many books, but I was missing a book I had that briefly explaind the meanings and origins of many words and root words, especially in scientific nomenclature. I don't want to to get another copy of that exact book in case it is still around and I just don't know where. It is more expensive than I expected fir such a tiny but useful book.This book has similar information in a similar format. It is set up in alphabetical order like a dictionary, which makes it easier to find specific words. You can also just browse at random for fun. I havenot looked st much of this book yet, partly because it is much bigger than the little book I used to have.The history of the word diaper is fascinating and not what I would have expected.This book traces the history of words through multiple languages and connects them to other words that we may or may not have suspected were related. Yet each entry is short enough that I can ready it quickly don't feel overwhelmed by the volume of words.If you like etymology, you will.like this book.

This collection is pretty vast considering its size. There are many terms’ etymologies that I didn’t know the entire history. The accurate derivations from the original languages and examples are great. They’re also humorous. I’ve read complaints that it doesn’t have enough words. Such a work would require years of specialists collecting data. It would be akin to an encyclopedia set to say the least. English is the most etymologically diverse language on earth. This is a great dictionary for any library.

What I love most about this is that it not only introduces the root (or first usage), it also gives you related words in English and other languages). You get the story of each word and can go down some excellent rabbit holes. Example: thorough is related to through, which comes from West Germanic *thurkh, from PIE *tr, which also produced the Latin trans. And nostril means "nose hole" (OE nosu thyrl), and btw thirl is still a a dialectal word for hole.

A good book although way too heavy in Latin borrowings that few know and no one says. I hoped I could use it to easily look up word origins for actually said and written words, and it can be used for that to a fair degree, but you have to sift past a million words you've never heard and won't ever say to find the word you need. I say this being a linguist who has studied Latin and Latin derived languages mind you. I can't single out the compilers for this as it is just the mainstream orthodoxy to prioritize obscure Latin borrowings over actual English words. However they should put a note about whether it is supposed to be for common English words or for obscure rare foreign words, or how heavy it leans to one set of vocabulary or another.

invaluable resource for language enthusiasts and curious minds alike. The book delves into the fascinating etymology of hubdreds of words, revealing their historical roots and evolution over time. Its well-organized entries make it easy to navigate and find information, while the detailed explanations keep you engaged. Whether you're a writer, student, or simply love words, this book provides both practical knowledge and intriguing insights into the origins of the language we use every day.

Excellent book, apart from the missing dust jacket.

Good but not great. I found a number of common words missing from the book. Not super happy with it.

This is an heir to Partridge’s magnum opus, and a fine one at that. It merits a place in one’s home library.