Containing over 8000 entries this fascinating dictionary is the authoritative guide to foreign words and phrases used in contemporary British and American English. Drawn from over 40 languages entries provide details of the history of each word or phrase including language of origin spelling variants and its sense and use in English. From expressions such as ab origine a cappella and nouvelle cuisine to futon pot-pourri and tamagotchi this is the ideal reference book for anyone wanting to tap into the wider resources of modern English.