Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins

by Julia Cresswell

Combining both accessibility and authority, The Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins describes the origins and development of over 3,000 words and phrases in the English language. The book draws on Oxford's unrivalled dictionary research program and language monitoring, and relates the fascinating stories behind many of our most curious terms and expressions in order to offer the reader a much more detailed explanation than can be found in a general English dictionary.
Organized A-Z, the entries include first known use along with examples that illustrate the many faces of the particular word or phrase, from 'handsome' to 'bachelor' and 'cute' to 'baby', from 'pagan' to 'palaver' and 'toff' to 'torpedo'. Also featured are almost 20 special panels that cover expressions common in English but drawn from other languages, such as 'coffee', 'sugar', and 'candy' from Arabic or 'booze', 'brandy', and 'gin' (Dutch).
This absorbing volume is useful for language students and enthusiasts, but also an intriguing read for any person interested in the development of the English language and of language development in general. It also includes an extended introduction on the history of the English language.

Genres: Reference, Linguistics, Language, Dictionaries, Nonfiction

502 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2010

Reviews

[Alistair · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's kind of nice to know where words come from.Words like 'pistol' (Czech origin píšťala - whistle/pipe) and 'mascara' which is an Italian word that has more to do with clowns and actors.The entry for 'camel' (page 69) is interesting.This is an interesting book.
interest
/ˈɪnt(ə)rɪst/
Learn to pronounce
verb
gerund or present participle: interesting

excite the curiosity or attention of (someone).
"I thought the book might interest Eliot"
h
Similar:
be of interest to

appeal to
attract
be attractive to
intrigue
fascinate
absorb
engross
rivet
grip
hold
captivate
amuse
divert
entertain
arouse one's curiosity
whet one's appetite
hold one's attention
engage one's attention
float someone's boat
tickle someone's fancy
light someone's fire
arouse someone's interest in
persuade to buy
sell

h
Opposite:
bore
persuade someone to undertake or acquire (something).
"efforts were made to interest her in a purchase"

Origin
late Middle English (originally as interess ): from Anglo-Norman French interesse, from Latin interesse ‘differ, be important’, from inter- ‘between’ + esse ‘be’. The -t was added partly by association with Old French interest ‘damage, loss’, apparently from Latin interest ‘it is important’. The original sense was ‘the possession of a share in or a right to something’; hence interest (sense 4 of the noun). interest (sense 1 of the noun) and the verb arose in the 18th century interest (sense 2 of the noun) was influenced by medieval Latin interesse ‘compensation for a debtor's defaulting’.

[Ece · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think, anyone who is interested in the origins of English words should read this book. You’ll be surprised how much you learn.

[Sergio Gómez Senovilla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Julia Cresswell’s Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins, published by Oxford University Press, offers an informative journey through the etymology of thousands of English words. I decided to acquire this book to explore the fascinating roots of the language.

One of the book’s main strengths lies in its balance between authority and readability. Cresswell explains complex linguistic histories clearly and concisely, making etymology approachable without compromising accuracy. The inclusion of thematic groupings adds an extra layer of interest.

The dictionary displays a broad lexical range, encompassing not only standard vocabulary but also idioms and some slang. It highlights the diverse influences shaping English, particularly from Old English, Latin, Greek, and Norse. Cultural and historical anecdotes further enrich the entries, making the dictionary as enjoyable to browse as it is to consult for reference.

However, its design for a general audience comes at the expense of academic depth. Many entries are likely too brief for readers seeking detailed linguistic analysis or students of historical linguistics.

Another shortcoming is its limited coverage of terms emerging from digital culture or recent social changes, which are largely absent.

In conclusion, the Oxford Dictionary of Word Origins stands out as an engaging and well-organised resource, ideal for language enthusiasts. Though it lacks the depth required for advanced scholarship, it remains a valuable companion for anyone curious about where English words come from.

[Roberto Bovina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mancano molte parole inglesi, è piuttosto superficiale, anche se ci sono descrizioni dell'origine.