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From the author of The Cat's Pyjamas comes another astonishing compendium of origins, customs and beliefs. Why is a police informant called a "grass"? What have the bee's knees got to do with excellence? What was the name of Lady Godiva's horse? In polite society, can you speak of the weather being cold enough to freeze the ball off a brass monkey?
This work investigates the historical origins, cultural evolution, and linguistic development of common English idioms, colloquialisms, and social customs. Rudy Brasch, a noted collector of linguistic curiosities, utilizes a thematic approach to trace the etymology of everyday phrases and obscure traditions. By examining the intersection of history and vernacular, the author provides a structured framework for understanding how language reflects the social anxieties and habits of past eras.
What You Will Find
This text serves as an accessible reference for readers interested in the historical roots of the English language. The content is presented in a light, informative style that prioritizes curiosity-driven learning over dense academic theory.
Page Count:
304
Publication Date:
2000-09-01
Publisher:
HarperCollins Publishers PTY
ISBN-10:
0207199949
ISBN-13:
9780207199943
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