Facts on File Dictionary of Cliches

This updated and expanded edition of a popular title explains the meanings and origins of almost 4,000 cliches and common expressions. Each entry includes the meaning of the cliche or expression, its origin and early uses, the historical development of the phrase, and its present-day usage. Hundreds of new cliches have been added, including many from the business world, such as "drum up," "fork over," and "go belly-up"; from the military, such as "the balloon goes up," "body count," and "mickey mouse"; and from popular novels, especially mysteries and thrillers. Other new cliches include "bells and whistles," "yada yada yada," and "whatever."Ammer, Christine is the author of 'Facts on File Dictionary of Cliches ', published 2006 under ISBN 9780816062799 and ISBN 081606279X.