The Accidental Dictionary presents a history of the English language on a micro level—that is, word by fascinating word. From “bimbo” (which first referred to a man) and “buxom” (originally meant obedient) to “snob” (a cobbler, previously) and “treadmill” (originally a term for a prison punishment), Paul Anthony Jones spins entertaining and illuminating origin stories of 100 everyday words and phrases, each chosen for its unexpected evolution. (We're big fans of his delightfully erudite Twitter account, @HaggardHawks, and are thrilled to finally be able to share his linguistically fascinating work with our readers!) Word lovers will be surprised, enlightened, and delighted by this quirky etymological compendium.