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The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable is a major new reference work, providing a wealth of fascinating and informative background detail for over 20,000 phrases and allusions used in English today. Drawing from Oxford's unrivalled bank of language and quotation on-line resources, this highly browsable pot pourri of allusive terms includes entries from a broad range of topics, from classical mythology, history, religion, folk customs, superstitions, science and technology, philosophy, and popular culture. Biographies of both real people and fictional characters are included also. From Barbie doll to the big bang theory, 'Every dog has his day' to seven-league boots, the dictionary gives reliable, up-to-date insights into the origins and history of words and phrases. Numerous entries are enlivened with illustrative quotations, and ample cross-referencing.