Oxford's reference on the figurative and allusive language of phrases and fables provides background information for over 10,000 examples. The breadth of coverage is wide, stretching from phrases such as "white van man" to classical mythology.
This reference work provides a wealth of background detail for over 10,000 phrases and allusions used in English today. Drawing from Oxford's bank of language and quotation on-line resources, this browsable pot-pourri of allusive terms includes entries from a broad range of topics, from classical mythology, history, religion, folk customs, superstitions, science and technology, philosophy, and popular culture. From "African Eve" to "white van man", from Barbie doll and "bunny boiler" to the big bang theory, the dictionary gives reliable, up-to-date insights into the origin and history of words and phrases, with ample cross-referencing.;This book is intended for general readership, especially those interested in the origins and meaning of the language, in myth and legend, in the history of ideas, in invention and discovery, and many other areas.
INTRODUCTION; DICTIONARY; EXAMPLES INCLUDE AFRICAN EVE, BLAIR BABES, CUSTER'S LAST STAND, FRIEND OF DOROTHY, GROUND ZERO, ORADOUR, RED QUEEN HYPOTHESIS, SHOOT THE MESSENGER, TROJAN HORSE
This reference work provides a wealth of background detail for over 10,000 phrases and allusions used in English today. Drawing from Oxford's bank of language and quotation on-line resources, this browsable pot-pourri of allusive terms includes entries from a broad range of topics, from classical mythology, history, religion, folk customs, superstitions, science and technology, philosophy, and popular culture. From "African Eve" to "white van man", from Barbie doll and "bunny boiler" to the big bang theory, the dictionary gives reliable, up-to-date insights into the origin and history of words and phrases, with ample cross-referencing.;This book is intended for general readership, especially those interested in the origins and meaning of the language, in myth and legend, in the history of ideas, in invention and discovery, and many other areas.
INTRODUCTION; DICTIONARY; EXAMPLES INCLUDE AFRICAN EVE, BLAIR BABES, CUSTER'S LAST STAND, FRIEND OF DOROTHY, GROUND ZERO, ORADOUR, RED QUEEN HYPOTHESIS, SHOOT THE MESSENGER, TROJAN HORSE