Crystal, David

Explores the history of English spelling, revealing why English words are spelled the way they are and why certain words are so difficult to spell properly. Details the influences of foreign languages on English throughout history and explains various word origins.

Contains alphabetically arranged entries that explore the meaning of nearly 14,000 words found in the plays and poems of William Shakespeare, each with at least one illustrative quotation. Includes cross-references and other resources.

Presents miscellaneous facts about William Shakespeare's work and life, with insights into his plays and poems and the Elizabethan theatrical world in which he worked.

Alphabetically arranged entries provide information on the life, work, and achievements of over 26,000 individuals.

Provides a historical summary of the rise of English as a global language, analyzes the spread and status of English as a first and second language internationally, and assesses the future use of English throughout the world.

Demonstrates how the history of English vernacular is reflected in one hundred words with sources in key influences and events, from "roe" and "loaf" to "fopdoodle" and "twittersphere.".

This book, grouped into semantic fields, is a selection of over 2000 global proverbs from 110 countries.

Provides a thematic account of language variety, history, structure, and behavior.