Literally: Amazing Words and Where They Come From

by Patrick Skipworth

Nicholas Stevenson (Illustrator)

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Book cover for Literally

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Did you know that English words come from all over the world and that their meanings have changed along their journey? Our word 'zero' comes from the Arabic word for empty space. 'Companion' is from the Latin for with bread. 

With simple descriptions and dazzling, evocative and witty illustrations, this is a fascinating introduction to the rich history and cultural diversity of our language. 

Words included: karaoke (Japanese); zero (Arabic); guru (Sanskrit); ukulele (Hawaiian); jaguar (Tupi); royalty (Norman French); companion (Latin); kookaburra (Wradjuri); worm (Old English); mummy (Persian); caribou (Algonquin); safari (Swahili)

  • ISBN13 9781912920174
  • Publish Date 7 May 2020 (first published 5 May 2020)
  • Publish Status Active
  • Publish Country GB
  • Publisher What on Earth Publishing Ltd
  • Imprint What on Earth Books
  • Format Hardcover
  • Pages 32
  • Language English