The Heron Derivation Dictionary - Fourth Edition published 2005 (softcover)

There is also an easy to understand history of the English language with maps. This saves a lot of time in understanding the history of the English language and how it relates to the history of England.

This is an invaluable reference for any student who wants a basic understanding of a word's history but does not want to spend time looking up a lot of symbols usually found in other dictionaries that show derivations (that includes most of the advanced and college level dictionaries). This book is a must when you're using a dictionary that doesn't show derivations (that includes most children and intermediate dictionaries and many student dictionaries).

"I have used this book on numerous occasions. It is extremely helpful in tutoring someone and helps the student by showing them the origin of a word. This is vital to gaining a full understanding of a word. It is especially helpful for adults who are just beginning to use dictionaries." Ruth



From the publisher:

Description: A derivation gives a fuller understanding of a word by telling how a word has changed from its original form to become what it means today. For example, the word amphibian comes from a Greek word meaning "living a double life." Help your students gain mastery of English and a greater appreciation of words through understanding the history of many words they might look up in the dictionary. Since the derivations in many dictionaries are difficult for younger readers to follow, The Heron Derivation Dictionary was written as a tool for students ages 12-14, and provides derivations for approximately 11,450 commonly used words. The dictionary has been found to be very useful not only with that age group, but with older students who are interested in derivations. Also included in the dictionary is a brief history of the English language, information on common symbols and terms found in dictionary derivations, and a glossary of terms.

Book length: 292 pages

Customer comments:

"Has arrived safely in Switzerland. GREAT PRODUCT! A tremendous help for studying English texts." B. K., Switzerland (Note: customer received the prior edition)