Words We Use

Diarmaid Ó Muirithe's column Words We Use was a feature of The Irish Times for many years. This collection of his most memorable contributions, by turns witty and sympathetic, wears its prodigious learning lightly and is sure to delight those captivated by the power of language to shape the world around us. Drawing on the author's nearly inexhaustible knowledge of languages, their mechanics and idiosyncrasies,Words We Use has sections covering everything from Magic and Shakespeare to Computers and Text Messaging. It will change the way you think about language forever.

Diarmaid O Muirithe was a Senior Lecturer Emeritus at UCD's School of English, Drama and Film Studies, and a distinguished historical lexicographer. Educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and at the National University of Ireland, he has been Fullbright Professor of English in the United States and has held the Chair of Irish Studies in St Mary's University, Halifax, Canada. He is the author of many books, including Irish Words and Phrases, Irish Slang, A Dictionary of Anglo-Irish Words, Words We Use and Words We Don't Use (Much Anymore). He was a consultant contributor to The Encyclopaedia of Ireland and a regular contributor to The Irish Times.