Note: This is the second edition of a previously published book.

This textbook is a systematic and accessible introduction to the lexicology of modern English. Lexicology is the branch of linguistics that studies all aspects of the vocabulary of a particular language. The book provides an account of the sources of modern English words and studies the development of vocabulary over time. It examines:

*What are words? *Where do English words come from? *How are words made up? *How do words 'mean'? *How are words used? *How can words be investigated?

This new edition of the best-selling textbook has been revised and updated throughout. Lists of exercises and figures, summaries of content at the beginning of each chapter, a revised list of suggestions for further reading, and a new glossary have been added. Words, Meaning and Vocabulary is an essential introduction to lexicology for undergraduate students.