About this ebook
In the last thirty years or so a large number of once commonplace words, phrases and expressions have disappeared without trace from common usage. And with them, too, have gone a number of goods, services and everyday objects that were once an important part of our everyday lives. Where did they go and why?
Lost English takes a look at how our language has changed and how the pace of modern life, the influence of American culture, changes in the country's sociological formation and rapid advances in technology have made once common words obsolete.
Includes:
'Charlie's dead' - a euphemism used to tell a girl that her petticoat is showing
'dekko' - take a quick look or glance
'brilliantine' - men's hair dressing product
'Nippy' - the name given to waitresses in Lyons Corner Houses
Lost English illuminates all these terms and many more. It's a fantastic gift for all those interested in history and the English language and a fascinating look at times past.
Lost English takes a look at how our language has changed and how the pace of modern life, the influence of American culture, changes in the country's sociological formation and rapid advances in technology have made once common words obsolete.
Includes:
'Charlie's dead' - a euphemism used to tell a girl that her petticoat is showing
'dekko' - take a quick look or glance
'brilliantine' - men's hair dressing product
'Nippy' - the name given to waitresses in Lyons Corner Houses
Lost English illuminates all these terms and many more. It's a fantastic gift for all those interested in history and the English language and a fascinating look at times past.
In the last thirty years or so a large number of once commonplace words, phrases and expressions have disappeared without trace from common usage. And with them, too, have gone a number of goods, services and everyday objects that were once an important part of our everyday lives. Where did they ...
About the author
Chris Roberts is a writer, librarian and London tour guide with a lifelong passion for the history of words.
Chris Roberts is a writer, librarian and London tour guide with a lifelong passion for the history of words.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
