Author(s): Paul Dickson

Language Books

"A compendious, entertaining look at our nation's leaders through words and turns of phrase." -- Kirkus Reviews

From George Washington's "New Yorker" and Thomas Jefferson's "pedicure" to Theodore Roosevelt's "lunatic fringe," Richard Nixon's "silent majority," and Donald Trump's "covfefe," this entertaining and eminently readable volume compiles words and phrases that were coined or popularized by American presidents. Discover the origins of "bloviate" (Warren G. Harding), "military-industrial complex" (Dwight D. Eisenhower), "misunderestimate" (George W. Bush), "squatter" (James Madison), and other terms that have helped define American culture. The entries are listed alphabetically, featuring a definition and -- in most cases -- a brief discussion that places them in historical context.

"Thoroughly enjoyable." -- The Washington Post

"The author is an essayist and lexicographer who presents this entertaining look at how presidents have used and shaped our language." -- The Dispatch (Columbus)