The Chambers Dictionary

Book excerpt: The Harrap's Chambers English dictionary covers the latest words and meanings to enter the English language; it is the most complete and comprehensive single-volume dictionary of the English language available. Now brought up-to-date with the latest new words (bird flu, podcast, happy slapping, etc.). Over 215,000 references and 300,000 definitions. Includes thousands of literary, rare, dialect and archaic terms. More words and definitions than any other single-volume English dictionary. Layout that makes entries easier to use and words easier to find. Clear, succinct definitions, straightforward pronunciation guidance and scholarly explanations of word origins. Short history of the English language