The diner's dictionary: word origins of food and drink (2^nd Ed.) Word Origins of Food and Drink

Did you know that 'croissant' literally means 'crescent' or that oranges are native to China? Do you realize that the word 'pie' has been around for seven hundred years in English or that 'toast' comes from the Latin word for 'scorch'? From absinthe to zabaglione, this lively guide presents the meaning and origin of over 2,300 food and drink terms. From basic ingredients to herbs, spices, and traditional dishes to more exotic products and delicacies, this book offers a feast of classic food and recipe terms as well as new additions to our gastronomic vocabulary over recent years such as Kobe beef, goji berry, latte, and wrap. Full of fascinating stories about some of our most popular foods and dishes as well as the more obscure, this is a delicious must-have for foodies and word buffs alike.

John Ayto is a freelance writer and the author of many reference works, including the Dictionary of Slang, the Dictionary of Modern Slang, and the Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms. He has always had a profound interest in food, drink, cookery, and international cuisines.