Which dictionary(for home use) is the best? Collins, OED, Collins, others? I realise there's the internet, but we want a couple to keep on our bookshelf. Opinions please.
Gerry Tan ● 3907d5 Comments
Whichever dictionary gives the best definition of my favourite onomatopoeic word tintinnabulation would be my choice. Also check if it has a definition for owlet (baby owl). Some years ago my daughter got free dictionaries from Collins when she was a pupil at Christchurch for pointing out that the word was missing.
Nigel Brooks ● 3906d
Agreed Thelma, English is a superlative language, so varied and open to numerous uses and slants.
Gerry Tan ● 3907d
Chambers describes it as 'unintelligible official jargon: rubbish, nonsense (Imit)'. 'Imit' means imitative - perhaps imitating a turkey's gobble. I believe the word is originally from the US.Another great word is serendipity - look it up if you're not familiar with it.We are very lucky to have the wonderful English language to play around with, aren't we?
Thelma Leach ● 3907d
Good idea Thelma - a word that has been "bugging" me recently is 'gobbledeegook' - 'twould be great if a dictionary gave it's meaning and origins and background. Thanks.
I've always liked Chambers myself - very good for a small(ish) dictionary and pretty comprehensive. How about picking out a few words which intrigue you and seeing how various dictionaries define them as a test of which you like?