The Facts on File Dictionary of Cliches : Meanings and Origins of More Than 3, 000 Terms and Expressions

While distionaries define cliches as trite phrases or expressions that convey popular or common ideas, these words and phrases offer interesting insights into changes in culture, language, and history.

Designed for students, language lovers, writers, and browsers alike, The Facts on File Dictionary of Cliches is the most comprehensive reference available, offering explanations and information on the meanings and origins of more than 3,000 cliches and common expressions.

Drawing from a wide variety of sources, including the Bible, Shakespeare, and other works of literature, each entry details the meaning of the cliche or expression, its source, early uses, and the history of the phrase over time.

The cliche's level of use in contemporary English is also noted.

Entries Include: "Been there, done that"; Best/worst-case scenario; Cast/written in stone; Couch potato; "Get a life"; In your face.