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The American Language: An Inquiry Into the Development of English in the United States
The American Language An Inquiry Into the Development of English in the United States
Author: H. L. Mencken
Ever wonder where phrases such as 'Rendez-vous with Destiny' and the like come from? Did you know the connection between the word 'boondoggle' and the Boy Scouts? Find out here. There are also valuable lists of words taken from the Algonquian languages, including mugwump! — So if you need to know about words like skedaddle, hunky-...  more »
ISBN-13: 9780394400761
ISBN-10: 0394400763
Publication Date: 6/27/1945
Pages: 769
Edition: 4th
Rating:
  • Currently 4/5 Stars.
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4 stars, based on 1 rating
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Book Type: Hardcover
Other Versions: Paperback
Members Wishing: 1
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jack-n-ivy-chinese avatar reviewed The American Language: An Inquiry Into the Development of English in the United States on + 10 more book reviews
I found a copy of this at a garage sale--it's a real treasure trove of word lore. Ever wonder where phrases such as 'Rendez-vous with Destiny' and the like come from? Did you know the connection between the word 'boondoggle' and the Boy Scouts? Find out here. There's also a valuable lists of words taken from the Algonquian languages, including mugwump! So if you need to know about words like skedaddle, hunky-dory, and shebang, this is the book for you. This book would have an entry for 'Freedom Fries' if it had been written, say, after 2003. A great way to spend a rainy afternoon.


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