Reverse English Dictionary

Rather than presenting a reverse list of words in endless sequence and strictly alphabetical order, this Reverse English Dictionary considers the structure and formation of words, grouping them together in sections and subdivisions. This way of looking at words from behind and comparing similar word endings reveals new and unaccustomed aspects of the structure of words and their formation, illustrating the enormous variety of the English language.

This innovative dictionary allows the user to find given names which relate to a specific meaning. Arranged alphabetically by definition, the names are followed by the language of origin, variations (derivatives, diminutives, and nicknames) of the name itself, and the name as interpreted in different languages. Separate sections are included for male and female names. Using the dictionary you could discover that there are over 160 names listed for "flower," from Anthea (Greek) to Zahara (African).

Have a word on the tip of your tongue? Unlike a thesaurus, where you look up alternatives to a word you know, or a dictionary, which defines a familiar word, this dictionary helps with words you are vaguely aware of, but can't bring to mind. Some 31,000 entries are listed under a wide range of subject areas and key words.

The Illustrated Reverse Dictionary is an ingenious word-finder that helps you locate the precise word you want when you know generally what you mean but can't recall the exact term. With an ordinary dictionary, you look up the word to find its meaning. With the Illustrated Reverse Dictionary, you do just the opposite: you look up the meaning to find the word. The Illustrated Reverse Dictionary works like a thesaurus, which gives you words that are similar in meaning, but it does more. You start with an idea, a description of the term you're looking for, and the Illustrated Reverse Dictionary leads you through associated words to the exact one you want. Moreover, each synonym is defined, and you get antonyms (word opposites) and etymologies (word histories), which a thesaurus does not offer. Containing over 400,000 words - in more than 70,000 main entries, with over 130 detailed color illustrations, and more than 160 charts, the Illustrated Reverse Dictionary offers quick and accurate reference.

'... lists an array of meanings alphabetically that lead you to words you may have momentarily forgotten ...' - Jacket.

The only dictionary of its kind, this greatly expanded second edition lists objects, concepts, traits and situations ancient and modern and gives their appropriate symbols. A companion to Symbolism: A Comprehensive Dictionary (2012), this volume presents symbols and their referents in reverse association (but is not simply a reconfiguring of information). Examples: a symbol for "hell" is descending stairs; an attribute of Saint Benedict is a raven; joy after sorrow is signified by the gemstone amber. Ethnic, literary, artistic, religious, heraldic, numerological, folkloric, occult and psychological usages are included.