Description
Book SynopsisThe best introduction to word history ever published combines scholarship with readability. OED's chief etymologist shows how words originate and change. He explores the histories of place and personal names and explains how to use different kinds of evidence, historical as well as linguistic. This is a book for everyone interested in words.
Trade ReviewThis is an immaculate work in every sense, proudly flying the banners of authority and of hegemony ... a galazy of fascinating examples ... a brilliant, addictive work indispensable for school and academic libraries at all levels, and for all with any interest in words and the enchanted patterns they weave. * H. G. A. Hughes, Reference Reviews *
a very readable, informative, content-packed introduction for the beginner; for the initiated it provides an incentive to ponder the many open questions presented. As such it can be unreservedly recommended. * Elmar Seebold, Anglia *
Our strong expectations of The Oxford Guide to Etymology are fully realized * Nicoline van der Sijs, Nederlandse Taalkunde *
Very much to be welcomed * Paul T. Roberge, English Language and Linguistics *
Table of ContentsAbout this book ; 1. Introduction ; 2. What is a Word? Which Words Need Etymologies? ; 3. Are Words Coherent Entities? ; 4. Word Formation ; 5. Lexical Borrowing ; 6. The Mechanisms of Borrowing ; 7. Change in Word Form ; 8. Semantic Change ; 9. Etymology and Names ; 10. Conclusion ; Glossary ; Suggested for Further Reading ; References ; General Index ; Index of Word Forms
