Kel Richards' Dictionary of Phrase and Fable

Book excerpt: Covering many unique--and sometimes peculiar--Australian slang phrases and words, this lighthearted guide shares the etymological history of almost 1,000 items from Australian-English lingo. The book includes how "bloody" became an all-purpose swear word, why "bludger" means a lazy person, the origin of "stone the crows," and what exactly defines "dangle the dunlops," "possum knockers," and "molly-dooker," among other colorful words and phrases. Entertaining and informative, this offbeat book will expand knowledge and ensure laughs.