Pub date: available now

A wonderfully nostalgic look at once-popular English words and phrases that are no longer commonplace

In the last thirty years or so a large number of once commonplace words, phrases and expressions have disappeared without trace from common usage. Where did they go and why? Lost English takes a look at how our language has changed and how the pace of modern life , the influence of American culture, changes in the country’s sociological formation and rapid advances in technology have made once common words obsolete. Includes:

• ‘Charlie’s dead’ – euphemism used to tell a girl that her petticoat is showing
• ‘dekko’ – take a quick look or glance
• ‘brilliantine’ – men’s hair dressing product
• ‘Nippy’ – the name given to waitresses in Lyons Corner Houses

Lost English illuminates all these terms and many more. It’s a fantastic gift for all those interested in history and the English language and a fascinating look at times past.