The Facts on File Dictionary of Allusions: Definitions and Origins of More Than 4,000 Allusions

Discover the fascinating world of allusions in one in-depth guide.

The Facts On File Dictionary of Allusions provides a comprehensive guide to allusions in the English language. In approximately 4,000 entries, this new resource explores well-known events, places, people, and phenomena whose names have acquired linguistic significance, conveying a particular message beyond a mere reference to the objects referred to. Entries are drawn from a wide range of sources, including Shakespeare and the Bible; Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology; texts from literature through the ages; historical events; popular culture; and film and television. Individual entries contain pronunciation guides, definitions, examples, information on derived forms, and more. An index, guide to use, and cross-references round out this accessible dictionary.

Entries include:

• Achilles’ heel
• Godzilla
• Indiana Jones
• Phoenix rising from the ashes
• Svengali
• and much more.