The Slang of Sin

by Tom Dalzell

Lists and defines the terminology used in association with such vices as drinking, sex, drugs, and gambling

Genres: Reference, Language, Nonfiction

480 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is flat out the best dictionary I've come across: definitions, illustrations, index, bibliography, and amazing sections on usage. First, the topic of sin is so much fun, and the language so vibrant, that this is a can't miss collection of slang. It is arranged in chapters by category: alcohol, gambling, drugs, horse racing, sex, deadly sins and also-rans, crime, and the wages of sin, so that you can look up words that way. And then in each chapter you will find, in addition to definitions, numerous sections on usage, word history, and references. For example, under drugs you will find sections on uppers, downers, hallucinogens, heroin, etc. so you have numerous ways of finding both definitions and the slang used in a specific bailiwick of sin. And then, in the Sindex, there is an alphabetical listing of slang words/expressions with the page number where you can find its definition or a discussion of its usage.

[Elizabeth Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an author, I've found this to be a great resource for both checking slang and help in inventing it!

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my favorite book on slang... which is saying a lot; I LOVE books on slang. It's one of those great reads I can tear through or just sit there and snack on indefinitely. Overall I've probably read it through four or five times, though at this point not for a few years.

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty cool dictionary with some interesting histories of slang included. I feel like I should rate it higher, but I don't refer to it as often as I thought I would.

[Caroline Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every dirty word you ever wanted to know about every sin that exists.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Slang Of Sin (Hardcover)
by Tom Dalzell

10/19/2016 bought from Friends of Beaverton Library


Contains images to define sexual positions/activities. Linguistics and etymology of vice.

[Sara Ellie MacKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear and concise explanations with origins of each word.