This is a strange mix between a dictionary, an encyclopedia, and a linguistic history book. Taggart gives explanations on the origins of modern English words. The book is organised by topics, e.g. Fun and Games, Sex 'n' Drugs 'n' Rock 'n' Roll or Hi- and Lo-Tech.

The tone of Taggart's work is light, the explanations are sometimes surprising or interesting, but although there is the odd reference to standard works of etymology, you basically just have to believe the author's anecdotal prose.

Whatever you think of her scientific credentials – this book is mostly small-talk stuff, although the hard cover and the heavy-weight paper aspires to higher glories.