A Concise Dictionary of First Names

Here is the ultimate first name handbook, a comprehensive survey of over 6,000 names in regular use in the English-speaking world, from the traditional to the newest and unconventional names of the nineties. The revised edition also offers new appendices listing common Arabic, Russian, Indian, French, German, Italian, and Spanish first names. Typical entries list the linguistic and ethnic root of a name. However, the real charm and value of this reference lies in the wealth of fascinating additional information the authors provide. Entries discuss the age, origin, and history of individual names, together with any historical or cultural associations, and trace the popularity of names through time. Most listings also include the non-English form or cognate of a name, diminutives, and pet forms. European names which have become established in English are also covered and pronunciation guidance is provided for difficult or unusual names.