Interesting Stories about Curious Words: From Stealing Thunder to Red Herrings
Paperback Published on: 10/10/2024
Price: £14.99
Synopsis
Join Susie Dent, lexicographer extraordinaire and Queen of Countdown's Dictionary Corner, on a curious and exceedingly interesting adventure through all the very best RED HERRINGS, COCK AND BULL STORIES and NINE-DAY WONDERS in the English language.
Who was SWEET FANNY ADAMS?
What's the dramatic true story behind STEALING THUNDER?
Why is it CHANCING YOUR ARM when you take a risk?
What do bears have to do with LICKING INTO SHAPE?
Or robbers with PULLING SOMEONE'S LEG?
Why are CIRCLES VICIOUS?
And, what's so bad about a WHITE ELEPHANT?
Publisher information
- Publisher: John Murray Press
- ISBN: 9781399811682
- Number of pages: 432
- Dimensions: 196 x 126 x 32 mm
- Weight: 350g
- Languages: English
Customer Reviews
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A magical read!
This is the first book I’ve read of Susie Dent’s and I could not put it down! A really fascinating read full of fun facts. It’s made me think again about m... READ MORE
Not every phrase has its origin
An interesting read but a number of the words and phrases don't have an origin. It was the origin of phrases that interests me.
That said it's a very easy... READ MORE
Completely fascinating!
Don’t listen to Jimmy Carr! This book is extremely interesting, very well written and definitely not boring! Lots of fascinating facts to throw at your fri... READ MORE
Susie Dent is a National Treasure!
I absolutely love this book! From her intro to her various definitions of farewell this book is one of the most perfect pieces of literature I have ever re... READ MORE