Ologies and Isms: A Dictionary of Word Beginnings and Endings

by Michael Quinion

Some of the most common--and often misinterpreted--parts of English language construction are prefixes and suffixes. Ologies and Isms unlocks the meaning of these building blocks that make up so much of our modern medical and technical vocabulary. In accessible, plain language this book
explains what each affix means. Containing over 10,000 examples within 1,250 entries, this ready reference illustrates the numerous ways that each example is used in everyday speech and writing. In addition, a selective thematic index breaks predixes and suffices down by theme, for example,
biochiemistry and drugs, living world, and places and people. Organized in a handy A to Z format, the book features a full Introduction, as well as a section with definitions of technical terms.
After reading logies and Isms , language enthusiasts, crossword and word game lovers, and anyone who has puzzled over 'antidisestablishmentarianism' or struggled with 'histopathologist' will have a better understanding of the language of the world around them.

Genres: Language

288 pages, Paperback

First published April 3, 2002

Reviews

[Erin O'Riordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read it straight through as if it were just nonfiction and not a reference book - it's fascinating if you love words.