Hobson-Jobson: The Anglo-Indian Dictionary (Wordsworth Reference) (Paperback)

~ Henry Yule (Author), A. C. Burnell (Author)

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Product Description

Bungalow, pyjamas, tiffin, rickshaw, veranda, curry, cheroot, chintz, calico, gingham, mango, junk and catamaran are all words which have crept into the English language from the days of Britain's colonial rule of the Indian sub-continent and the Malaysian Peninsular. Hobson-Jobson (derived from the Islamic cry at the celebration of Muhurram 'Ya Hasan, ya Hosain' is shorthand for the assimilation of foreign words to the sound pattern of the adopting language. This dictionary, compiled in the late-19th century, is an invaluable source which has never been superseded. It is an essential book for all who are interested in English etymology and the development of the language.

Product Details

• Paperback: 472 pages
• Publisher: Wordsworth Editions Ltd (December 5, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 185326363X
• ISBN-13: 978-1853263637
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 5 x 2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #403,181 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars an essential reference, February 15, 2006

By	Mr. Gelek (Bay Area, CA) - See all my reviews

This book is in the public domain and can be found on-line free... but at this price it's worth owning a copy. Still the essential reference for the colonial period in South and Southeast Asia, especially India, Burma, Malaya, and the western Dutch East Indies. Unmatched info on places, peoples, foods, and things. Well documented entries with etymologies and OED-style chronological quotations.