Dictionary of Americanisms: A Glossary of Words and Phrases, Usually Regarded as Peculiar to the United States

Abstract

This is an all-American linguistic classic - back in print at last. First published in 1848, John Russell Bartlett's Dictionary of Americanisms is a landmark compendium of American slang - a book that offers a fascinating glimpse into the politics, culture, and language of pre-Civil War America. Now republished with a foreword by language maven Richard Lederer, this is a great rediscovery and a perfect glimpse into how Americans talked in the mid-1800's. From New England regionalisms (funkify), New York Dutch words (olycoke), and Native American borrowings (netop) to colorful Western expressions (to see the elephant) and other surprisingly early usages (the blues, flunky), this is a highly readable, engaging dictionary for word buffs and American history fans alike. John Russell Bartlett (1805 - 1886) was a bookseller, politician, ethnographer, draftsman, and linguist. His Dictionary of Americanisms went through four editions between 1848 and 1877. Richard Lederer (San Diego, CA) is a bestselling authority on language, puns, and word usage. The author of Anguished English and other popular language books, he appears regularly on National Public Radio and elsewhere in the media.

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