The Oxford Dictionary of Foreign Words and Phrases

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If foreign words and phrases are your "bete noire," this superb reference covers over 8,000 terms commonly used in English today. Readers will find clear definitions for words like "fandango," "futon," "falsetto," "basmati," "bistro," and "nouvelle cuisine," as well as terms from music, the arts, food, medicine, and science, including the varied meanings of "gamma" in different fields. The resource draws from a wide array of languages, including Afrikaans, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindustani, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Russian, and Turkish. Each entry is authoritative and browsable, providing detailed information such as alternative spellings, the date of introduction into English, language of origin, definitions, and notes on usage. Curious etymologies abound; for example, "ukelele" means "jumping flea" in Hawaiian, while "yakuza," the Japanese term for "gangster," translates to "8-9-3," referring to a poor hand in gambling. Quotations illustrate word usage in context, making this an indispensable addition to any reference shelf.