Author Description
We all have a first name, but how many of us really know its origin and history? This comprehensive dictionary provides a collection of linguistic, historical, and associated information about some 7,000 names, making it a useful reference for linguists and family historians, as well as an source of information for parents choosing a name for a child.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This dictionary investigates the etymological origins, historical development, and cultural significance of personal names. Patrick Hanks, a noted lexicographer and researcher in onomastics, utilizes linguistic analysis and historical records to provide a structured overview of naming conventions. The text serves as a reference tool for understanding the evolution of names across various cultures and time periods.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Etymological data for approximately 7,000 first names
- Historical context regarding the usage and spread of specific names
- Linguistic analysis of name roots and variations
Scope Limits
- Does not provide exhaustive coverage of every obscure regional name variant
- Does not focus on modern naming trends or pop-culture influences beyond historical roots
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts in the field of onomastics recognize this work as a reliable and scholarly resource for name research. Readers frequently note the clarity of the entries and the utility of the historical background provided for each name.
Page Count:
479
Publication Date:
1996-01-01
Publisher:
OXFORD PAPERBACKS
ISBN-10:
0192800507
ISBN-13:
9780192800503
Linguistics
Etymology
Reference
Names Personal
Genealogy
Onomastics
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