The Dictionary of Difficult Words

This is a book to create logophiles! Written and compiled by a lexicographer, more than 400 unusual words are defined and this book will certainly expand vocabulary as well as encouraging discussion of wider considerations around language. There is a pronunciation guide for each word and an indication of which part of speech it is. Many of the words are illustrated, often humorously, and some are selected and given a more detailed explanation.

See also:

Patrick Skipworth: Literally. Amazing Words and Where They Come From, illustrated by Nicholas Stevenson. What on Earth Books £11.99 9781912920174

Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris: The Lost Words Hamish Hamilton £20 9780241253588