We are currently out of stock on this item. Please check back later.
The founding fathers (a term created by Warren G. Harding for his "front porch campaign" of 1920) felt that coining words and creating new uses for old ones was part of their role in creating a new American culture and language, distinct from the proscriptive King's English. Noah Webster called the creation of such Americanisms "acts of defiance," along with such radical ideas as universal literacy and public libraries. Ever since, American presidents have enriched our vocabulary with words, phrases, and concepts that we’ve put to general use.
Bloviate ... lunatic fringe ... iffy ... military industrial complex ... Anglophobia ... kitchen cabinet ... public relations ... ottoman ... pedicure ... point well taken ... personal shopper ... normalcy
Acclaimed lexicographer Paul Dickson has compiled the first collection of new words and lexical curiosities originating on Pennsylvania Avenue. Organized chronologically, each entry contains the definition, etymology, and a brief essay placing the word or phrase in its cultural context. From Washington (tin can) and Jefferson (who alone gets credit for some one hundred coinages, including belittle and the expression holding the bag), to Lincoln (relocate) and Teddy Roosevelt (bully pulpit), to Ike (mulligan) and Obama (Snowmageddon), they collectively provide an illuminating tour of more than two centuries of our history. Remaindered title. Hardcover, 199 pages.
Note about our Exceptional Value books:This is a Remaindered title: a new, unread, publisher over-stock copy in excellent condition, discounted anywhere from 20% to 49% off list, depending on the title. It could have light scuff marks or shelf wear but each book meets our high quality standards. All books will be marked with a stroke of a felt-tipped marker across the top or bottom of the book's pages, near the spine. We are confident you will be very happy with your purchase. Your purchase supports the education and exhibit programs of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum.