This Dictionary of Curious Phrases is a comprehensive updating of the author's previous authoritative work on the subject, the Guinness Book of Curious Phrases.

* A guide to the original meaning of metaphorical phrases in common use
* Invaluable for the general reader, speechwriter or for anyone interested in language or popular culture
* Phrases explained include `kick the bucket', `scream blue murder', `a hair of the dog', `cat's pyjamas', `brass tacks' and `red herrings'
* Destined to become the standard popular reference guide to the subject
* Compiled by Leslie Dunkling, founder of the Names Society and author of many classic reference works.