The Foolish Dictionary / An exhausting work of reference to un-certain English words, their origin, meaning, legitimate and illegitimate use, confused by a few pictures [not included]

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

1989

Title

The Foolish Dictionary / An exhausting work of reference to un-certain English words, their origin, meaning, legitimate and illegitimate use, confused by a few pictures [not included]

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Gideon Wurdz presents "The Foolish Dictionary," a satirical reference work parodying standard lexicons. With playful definitions, witty illustrations, and absurd etymologies, this book offers a humorous critique of language, society, and human folly, inviting readers to laugh at the complexities of the English tongue.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Foolish Dictionary,' Gideon Wurdz presents a satirical reimagining of the English language, offering definitions that are intentionally absurd, humorous, and socially critical. Rather than emulating the serious, wordy works of Webster or Worcester, Wurdz adopts the playful spirit of a parodist to explore the quirks of human nature and language. The text serves as an 'exhausting work of reference' to uncertain words, replacing traditional etymologies with witty inventions and cynical cultural observations reflective of early 20th-century American attitudes. The book's preface outlines the author's intent to contribute to the gaiety and wisdom of nations through humor. Wurdz restricts his scope to about half a thousand words, aiming to elicit even a single laugh from the reader. The dictionary entries range from common concepts like 'love' and 'money' to obscure terms, each accompanied by clever explanations. For instance, 'love' is defined as a man's insane desire to become a woman's meal-ticket, while 'money' is society's vindication of vulgarity. Other entries, such as 'alimony' (an expensive soothing syrup for a bleeding heart) and 'mortgage' (a lawyer's invention for choking property to death), highlight the author's irreverent tone. Beyond the main dictionary, the work includes a section on abbreviations, a glossary of mythological figures reimagined with modern twists, and notes on legal and local holidays. Wurdz also provides typographical notes and postal information, maintaining his characteristic irreverence throughout. The book is characterized by consistent wordplay and a theme suggesting that life's serious pursuits are best approached with a sense of fun. While not a serious linguistic resource, 'The Foolish Dictionary' stands as a delightful piece of literary satire, celebrating the absurdity of human nature and the peculiarities of the English language.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/1989.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg1989.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-08-14 02:45 UTC

Categories

• Dictionaries
• Humor