The Oxford dictionary of modern slang /

These reference works are updates in the 84-volume "Oxford Paperback Reference" series. Lexicographer Ayto and Simpson (chief editor, Oxford English Dictionary) compile slang words and phrases from the 20th century. The entries provide the origin of the word or phrase, the date the word was recorded as entering the English language, part of speech, alternative spellings, and at least one example of the term in context from a published source. Delahunty (contributor, The Oxford Dictionary of Allusions) selects foreign words and phrases assimilated into the English language from 40 other languages. Most of the selections are lifestyle words pertaining to areas such as fashion, cuisine, ethnic music, and recreation. An appendix lists the words by country of origin and century of introduction into English. Ratcliffe (Concise Oxford Dictionary of Quotations) provides a broad collection of quotations from ancient times to the 21st century, listed by theme. The selections range from the words of Plato to President Obama. There is an author index at the end of the book as well. -BOTTOM LINE Each of these books would be a nice addition to any library with a focus on language and well used by students and researchers.-Diane Fulkerson, Univ. of West Georgia Lib., Carrollton (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.