Ebenezer Cobham Brewer Books

"In this book: Much loved for its wit and wisdom since 1870, Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable takes you on a captivating adventure through its trademark blend of language, culture, myth and legend. Edited by Susie Dent, this new edition contains an intriguing supplement of Brewer's Gems - facts, fables and curiosities from Brewer collections of the past. Its pages brim with esoteric and entertaining entries - everything from curious customs to the world of newspapers and political alliances of yesteryear - all seen through the distinctive Brewer lens. This nineteenth edition of Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable encapsulates all the charm and wit that characterise its predecessors and maintains the standards of scholarship and eclecticism that have long been its hallmark. This unique edition has been thoroughly updated with over 100 new and revised entries - think crowdsourcing, cyberpunk, iPad and mash-up - guaranteed to delight, entertain and inspire in the best Brewer's tradition. Also included are twenty special entries that encapsulate the enticing spirit of the dictionary. Discover Brewer's take on angels, heraldry, pub signs and recluses and delve into the lexicographical world of the eggcorn. Whether you're a committed Brewerphile or a newcomer to its pages of fascinating entries, this edition will draw you in and keep you glued to its rich mix of eccentric nuggets. As Susie Dent explains in the foreword, Brewer's 'is not a straightforward dictionary, nor is it an encyclopaedia. It is, in fact, unlike any other reference book that exists, anywhere.'"--Wheelers.co.nz

This classic 1870 work serves as a 'museum of literary odds and ends', explaining the etymology of 20,000 words and phrases.

This work explains the origins of the familiar and the unfamiliar in everyday speech and literature, including the colloquial and the proverbial. It embraces archaeology, history, religion, the arts, science, mythology and characters from fiction.

An informative reference tool provides complete background to common phrases. Many entries are accompanied by quotations

Celebrating the 125th anniversary of its original publication, this expanded and updated edition of a classic reference features a new, simplified organization.

In this book, Ebenezer Cobham Brewer reviews common errors in English speech and spelling, and provides guidance on how to avoid them. He discusses the roots of these errors, and the causes behind them. The book also features exercises and quizzes to help readers improve their command of the language.

This book explores the fascinating world of common mistakes in speech and writing. Drawing upon a wealth of anecdotal evidence and linguistic research, it offers valuable insights into the social, cultural, and psychological factors that underlie common errors of grammar and spelling. The book is a useful resource for writers, editors, and anyone interested in the nuances of language use.