Dictionary of American slang [Hardcover] Wentworth, Harold and Flexner, Stuart, Comp

Description

1960 edition. Hardcover has some wear, scuffs and marks. No dust jacket. Spine has some wear on the top and bottom. Pages are clean and the binding is secure.

This well-loved copy of Harold Wentworth’s “Dictionary of American Slang” offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant and ever-evolving lexicon of American vernacular language. Published in 1960, this comprehensive reference work captures the rich tapestry of slang expressions that permeated the cultural landscape of mid-20th century America. Wentworth, a linguistic scholar with a keen ear for colloquialisms, meticulously compiled and defined thousands of slang terms, providing invaluable insights into the sociocultural undercurrents that shaped their usage.

Beyond its practical utility as a reference, this volume holds immense historical and cultural significance. Slang, often dismissed as mere linguistic frivolity, serves as a powerful lens through which to explore the nuances of American identity, reflecting the diverse influences of immigration, urbanization, and social movements that shaped the nation’s linguistic landscape. Wentworth’s meticulous documentation of these linguistic gems offers a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to delve into the rich tapestry of American vernacular, uncovering the stories and contexts that breathed life into these colorful expressions.