Dictionary of the Strange, Curious & Lovely summary

Discovering the Uncommon in the English Language

In Dictionary of the Strange, Curious & Lovely by Robin Devoe, we encounter a delightful journey through the English language, exploring the less-traveled paths of vocabulary. The book is a collection of 3500 uncommon and beautiful words, each with its unique charm and distinctiveness.

Devoe begins by explaining that the words in the dictionary are not necessarily archaic or obsolete, but rather words that have been overlooked or underused. They are words that have the potential to enrich our language and our lives, if only we would take notice of them.

Unveiling the Unusual and Beautiful Words

As we delve into the dictionary, we encounter words like petrichor, the pleasant earthy smell that accompanies the first rain after a long period of warm, dry weather, and limerance, the state of being infatuated with another person. These words, and many others, are like treasures waiting to be discovered, each with a unique story to tell.

We also come across words with mesmerizing sounds, such as psithurism, the sound of wind in the trees, and moonglade, the track of moonlight on water. These words not only describe specific experiences but also evoke vivid imagery and emotions.

Exploring the Quirks of English Language

Throughout the journey, Devoe also sheds light on the quirks and idiosyncrasies of the English language. We encounter words that seem to embody their meanings perfectly, such as chirm, the sound of a large group of birds, and firedrake, an old word for dragon, which feels as fiery and fierce as the creature it describes.

Moreover, the dictionary provides insights into the etymology of these unusual words, revealing their origins and connections to other languages. This not only enriches our understanding of the words but also helps us appreciate the diversity and evolution of the English language.

Embracing the Uncommon in Everyday Language

By the end of Dictionary of the Strange, Curious & Lovely, we are left with a newfound appreciation for the uncommon in language. Devoe encourages us to incorporate these words into our everyday conversations and writings, believing that they have the power to add depth and color to our communication.

In conclusion, Dictionary of the Strange, Curious & Lovely is not just a reference book but a celebration of the richness and beauty of the English language. It invites us to explore the overlooked corners of our vocabulary and embrace the uncommon, the strange, and the lovely words that make our language so fascinating.