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Word By Word: The Secret Life Of Dictionaries
Word By Word: The Secret Life Of Dictionaries
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With wit and irreverence, lexicographer Kory Stamper cracks open the obsessive world of dictionary writing, from the agonizing decisions about what to define and how to do it to the knotty questions of ever-changing word usage.
Filled with fun facts—for example, the first documented usage of “OMG” was in a letter to Winston Churchill—and Stamper’s own stories from the linguistic front lines (including how she became America’s foremost “irregardless” apologist, despite loathing the word), Word by Word is an endlessly entertaining look at the wonderful complexities and eccentricities of the English language.
A note on book covers: while we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

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One Line Summary
Insightful, humorous look into dictionary creation and language.
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Who is this book for?
If you’ve ever wondered how dictionaries come together or what goes on behind the scenes of language preservation, this book is a treat. Kory Stamper’s witty storytelling makes even complex language decisions engaging, and her anecdotes are both funny and enlightening. It’s perfect for word lovers and language enthusiasts alike, offering a charming peek into the quirks and wonders of English.