A guide to allusions in the English language. In approximately 4,000 entries, it 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. It includes an index, bibliography, and cross-references.

“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. The 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, bibliography, and cross-references round out this accessible dictionary.

Martin Manser has compiled and edited Bible reference material and English-language dictionaries for nearly thirty years. He lives in Aylesbury, England. He and his wife have two children.