The Wordsworth Dictionary of Obscenity & Taboo

The Wordsworth Dictionary of Obscenity & Taboo, authored by James McDonald and published by Wordsworth Editions in 1996, offers a concise reference exploring the etymology, history, and cultural significance of words related to bodily functions, sex, excretion, and other traditionally forbidden topics. Spanning 167 pages with bibliographical references, it delves into obscenities, taboos, and euphemisms, tracing their origins from ancient slang to modern usage across English dialects. This compact volume serves as an engaging, scholarly guide for linguists, historians, and curious readers interested in the evolution of profane language.