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Provides the origins and meanings for the proper names of more than eight thousand people, places, and things

Since its first publication in 1870, Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable has become one of the world's best-loved and most-browsed-through books. Where else can one find the meanings of - and the stories behind - so many terms and phrases drawn from mythology, literature, history, folk customs, pop culture, philosophy, science, magic, and superstitions? From expressions as common as sour grapes to allusions such as Pyrrhic victory, Dr. Brewer and his editorial successors both teach and delight the reader, offering unusual, out-of-the-way, and fascinating information on thousands of familiar - and unfamiliar - phrases. Completely revised, updated, and expanded, this fifteenth edition contains hundreds of new entries, improved etymologies, and a reorganized format that make Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable even more of a delight than ever.

o Over 5000 entries, from a priori to Zeitgeisto Covers everyday expressions, specialist terms and tagso Gives clear definitions and easy-to-use pronunciation guideo Includes details of language and date of origino Highlights additional points of historical and etymological interest

Interesting, amusing, puzzling and even frustrating aspects of life in Britain are explained in this new dictionary. Over 3,000 alphabetically arranged entries give up-to-date coverage of Britain and the British way of life. More than just a tourist guide, this dictionary covers a wide range of topics, including important public events, well-known people, geography, food, work, and sports.

Interesting, puzzling or amusing aspects of life in contemporary Britain are explained in over 3000 alphabetically arranged entries, providing up-to-date information on the media, sport, entertainment, people in the news, food, education, art, historical events and important places.

Featuring over 4000 placenames, this comprehensive alphabetical dictionary covers a wide range of locations in France, including Corsica, Monaco, and Andorra. It details natural features like rivers and mountains, as well as administrative regions, historical provinces, and inhabited centers, such as cities and villages. This extensive resource serves as a valuable reference for anyone interested in the geographical and cultural landscape of France.

The book explores the intricate and often perplexing terminology found in various sports, highlighting how specific jargon can confuse those unfamiliar with the games. It contrasts American baseball terms like "bunt" and "cut-off man" with British cricket phrases such as "Chinaman" and "yorker," illustrating the challenges non-native fans face in understanding these specialized vocabularies. Through this examination, the work sheds light on the cultural nuances embedded in sports language.

Focusing on the historical and geographical significance of over 7,000 places, this geographical dictionary details past and present alternate names, emphasizing those with official or semi-official status. It explores how wars, invasions, and political changes influence these names, while providing insights into their origins. Additionally, appendices highlight placenames in non-English languages and those renamed in fictional contexts, making it a comprehensive resource for understanding the evolution of place names.

This comprehensive guide covers over 660 terms related to onomastics, the study of names. It provides detailed definitions and explanations, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the significance and history of names. The book delves into various aspects of naming conventions, cultural variations, and the etymology of names, offering insights into their impact on identity and society.

Exploring the significance of placenames, this comprehensive reference work delves into the historical, cultural, and personal meanings behind geographical labels. Each entry reveals the origins and stories tied to various locations around the globe, highlighting how names can reflect the identity and aspirations of nations and individuals alike.