The Superior Person's Book of Words

The next time you're discussing kakistocracy with a belesprit, or expostulating the inconvenience of kinetosis, you might appreciate the advantageous vocabulary bestowed by this text. Emphasizing the use of precise, often neglected words in daily speech, The Superior Person's Book of Words harks back to the days when grammar and rhetoric were an indispensable component of classical education. Compiled by lexicographer Peter Bowler and wittily illustrated by Dennis Corrigan, this hardcover dictionary contains over 500 entries from "abecedarian" (arranged in alphabetical order; or, elementary, devoid of sophistication) to "zzxjoanw" (a Maori drum). Guaranteed to promote victory in popular word games and to incite discussion at dinner, The Superior Person's Book of Words is an intriguing addition to a personal library. 118 pages. 8 1/2" H x 5 1/2" W x 3/4" D. (14 oz.)