Chambers Dictionary of Etymology [Hardcover]

Robert K. Barnhart (Editor), Sol Steinmetz (Collaborator)

Book Description

Series: Dictionary | Publication Date: September 15, 1999

How are the words 'door' German 'Tzr' and Sanskrit 'dvar' related? When did the word Blarney first appear in print? What's the linguistic history of the word 'history'? The Chambers Etymological Dictionary holds all the answers for any person curious about the origins of the words they use, and how these words have changed over time. This fascinating dictionary explores the development of meaning, spelling, and pronunciation of over 25,000 English words. Over 30,000 detailed entries trace words back to their Proto-Germanic or Indo-European roots, and include words borrowed from other languages, as well as the sources and dates of their first recorded use. For many years academics, wordsmiths, crossword lovers, and language enthusiasts of all stripes have turned to this celebrated volume as their reference of choice in lexical matters. First published as the Barnhart Etymological Dictionary, the Chambers Dictionary of Etymology offers a unique combination of approachability and authoritativeness in an accessible single-volume format, making it an essential etymological resource for the expert, and a fascinating reference for the general reader. Sample entry from the Chambers Etymological Dictionary: blarney n. flattering, coaxing talk. 1766, Lady Blarny (for Blarney), a smooth-talking flatterer in Goldsmith's the Vicar of Wakefield, her name being a literary contrivance in allusion to Blarney Stone, a stone in a castle near Cork, Ireland. Anyone kissing the stone is supposed to become skillful in flattering and coaxing. The word is used in its general sense in a letter of Sir Walter Scott (1796).

Editorial Reviews

Review

'The best of scholarship ... the most user-friendly of etymological dictionaries' -- University of Georgia

About the Author

Robert K. Barnhart is a contributor for Chambers Harrap Publishers titles including: 'Chambers Dictionary of Etymology'

Product Details

• Hardcover: 1284 pages
• Publisher: Chambers (September 15, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0550142304
• ISBN-13: 978-0550142306
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 7 x 2.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (14 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #88,828 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

181 of 189 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This is the UK Version of the Great Barnhart Dictionary, November 17, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Chambers Dictionary of Etymology (Hardcover)

As noted, this is the Barnhart Dictionary, published by Chambers. The US version of this classic is now priced at over $60 - so this British re-release is a real bargain. One of the best modern etymology references available, clear, concise and definitive. IMHO, its better organized then the Oxford, and more authoritative than all but Pkorny's great $1,000 work on the etymology of all IndoEuropean languages. Highly recommended.

44 of 45 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "This is a Great Dictionary, Right Down to the Root", November 1, 2001

By 

Johannes Platonicus (South Bend, Indiana) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Chambers Dictionary of Etymology (Hardcover)

The Chamber's Dictionary of Etymology is the best edition to be found. With the origins and development of over 25,000 English words it remains the most complete and formidable reference tool in its class. This single-volume dictionary contains a short history of the English language; and above and beyond all other editions it handles how the spelling, pronunciation, and meanings of words have changed throughout time. This edition will be exceptionaly rewarding for English students, teachers, and general readers alike.

27 of 28 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful reference and great value!, July 31, 2002

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Chambers Dictionary of Etymology (Hardcover)

This volume is a "must-have" for readers, scholars, and absolutely any person interested in words and their origins/history. The book is rather heavy and thick but is otherwise extremely user-friendly and a great "browser" as well as an essential companion to any ordinary dictionary.

I should note that this edition, although a British re-publication of its famous US version, retains American spelling and keeps its focus on American sources while utilizing the best of all English references, regardless of country of origin.

Regarding physical quality, the book has a signature-sewn binding, meaning that it is not merely held together by glue but that its pages are actually sewn with real thread... quite a treat in today's disposable society. Thus, with reasonable care, this tome should last a lifetime and beyond!