A Winter Dictionary is a fascinating little tome that deserves a place nestled on the coffee tables of those who feel the most at home when the air has some bite to it!

I found this book an absolute delight to flip through! As the name suggests, this is in face a dictionary, featuring a collection of words that honor the colder half of the year. It's a wonderful way to romanticize and honor winter.

This would make a beautiful Christmas or Solstice gift to those who love language and the cold.

I love the theme and the content of this book, but the formatting and execution just wasn't for me. I found it hard to engage and to actually want to read it. I might feel a bit differently if I had a physical copy.

A beautiful book, perfect to dip in to any time to get that little tingle from new, unusual knowledge. The cover design couldn't be better - somehow it manages to look like a magical gift waiting to be unwrapped! I am getting copies for friends and family who feel, like me, that words are like little jewels.

This is such a perfect book as we head into winter. Who knew that there were so many words to describe all the wintery things that we never had a word for. Paul Anthony Jones is a wonderful wordsmith who has collected together the most beautiful words to describe all aspects of winter. This book is ideal for those cold winter evenings when you can dip into a world of descriptive words to suit your mood.
The author not only gives us such wonderful words such as crapulent and darkle but he delves into the origins of these words and phrases many of which have been lost over the years. By introducing the history of these words he brings them to life and gives thought and power to them. It helps you to appreciate the narrative of different cultures and languages.
This book has a charm all of its own and will make winter walks all the more magical as we look for frost dogs in the cold air. Beautiful, thought provoking, one to be enjoyed again and again by all the family.

Such a beautiful read :)

A must for anyone wanting to learn some new words or read something light and fun.

I need a physical copy asap!

I love words, their solid beauty and the way in which language has evolved over time. To have a winter dictionary seems like the perfect idea especially when it’s written and presented in such a lovely way. These books, by this talented wordsmith, are always beautifully presented, from the tactile nature of the beautiful book cover to the immersive, educational and downright fascinating information found within its pages.

The contents are nicely divided into eleven clear chapters which take us from the changing seasons, through winter storms, ice and snow and further towards Christmas Day and into the snow melts of a new year. The words are well explained and placed in context, all evoke a strong sense of time and place whilst at the same time explaining the meaning of words, all perfectly appropriate, many of which I had never heard before. Some made me smile, some words, no longer in common usage, just seemed really perfect and made me wonder why we had stopped using them and then, of course, there’s the local variations, specific dialect and the gradual evolution of words and phrases which are very much part of our ancestry.

This is definitely the most perfect wintery read, it’s one of those gently fascinating sorts of books which you can just dip into and out of it at whim and by merely opening a page at random you will discover something fascinating you never knew you needed to know.

*Paul Anthony Jones’ A Winter Dictionary is a delightful and charming exploration of the English language, uncovering the forgotten, rare, and sometimes whimsical words that bring the winter season to life. Known for his fascination with etymology and his knack for uncovering obscure words, Jones takes readers on a frosty linguistic journey that invites us to rediscover how language can capture the magic, beauty, and even harshness of winter.

Structured like a lexicon, A Winter Dictionary collects dozens of unusual words, each perfectly suited to describe the nuances of winter in ways most of us never imagined. From poetic terms like “frost-dogs” (tiny frozen snow particles that shimmer in the cold air) to the playful “crapulent” (the feeling of post-indulgence malaise, particularly relevant after festive feasting), Jones’ selections add depth to the way we experience the season. The book taps into the wonder of winter’s unique qualities—cold snaps, quiet snowfall, and festive indulgences—with words that feel as though they’ve been plucked from a long-lost winter storybook.

One of the joys of A Winter Dictionary is the way Jones not only introduces readers to these words but also delves into their etymology and cultural origins. For example, the term “stepmother’s breath”—used to describe a sudden, biting cold snap—carries with it a historical and cultural weight, evoking folk traditions and the personification of the season’s harshness. By contextualizing the history behind these terms, Jones invites readers to see how language has always been shaped by our environment, and how words have been used to capture winter’s icy grip for centuries.

Jones’ love for language shines through in his vivid, descriptive prose. His writing manages to make this collection of words feel more like an evocative journey through the season than a dry academic reference. As readers flip through pages filled with frosty metaphors and forgotten expressions, they will be struck by how these words paint vivid pictures of a winter long past, yet still recognizable today. Whether it’s the comforting idea of a “hibernaculum” (a winter refuge) or the chill of “gelicide” (killing frost), each entry offers its own glimpse into how winter shapes human experience.

Beyond being a lexicographical treasure trove, A Winter Dictionary is also perfect for readers who love to revel in the seasonal spirit. Whether you’re curled up by a fire, watching snow fall outside your window, or embracing the festive rush of the holidays, this book is an ideal companion to help articulate the moods and moments of the colder months. It’s easy to imagine quoting some of these words over mulled wine or bringing them into conversation during a snow-covered stroll, transforming everyday winter observations into something far more poetic.

While the book is brimming with fascinating discoveries, some readers may find the dictionary-like format better suited for dipping into than reading in one sitting. However, this is also part of its charm—each word is like a little snowflake, something to savor slowly.

In conclusion, A Winter Dictionary by Paul Anthony Jones is a wonderful celebration of both winter and language. For lovers of words, folklore, and the magic of the cold season, this book offers a unique and enchanting perspective on how we describe and understand winter. It serves as a reminder that language is not only functional but deeply expressive, and that even in the darkest, coldest months, there is warmth and wonder to be found in words. Perfect for book lovers, logophiles, and anyone looking to enhance their winter vocabulary, A Winter Dictionary is a cozy and engaging read for the season.

A Winter Dictionary is about the magic and mystery of language. This novel is uncovering lost words and brings together a selection of wintry terms from different cultures, time periods, and regions. Some are familiar yet carry a forgotten depth, while others are so rare that they almost feel like secret treasures. The book is filled with words that express the nuances of winter in ways that modern language sometimes struggles to convey.
This dictionary has the ability to provoke deep reflection about the relationship between words and our environment. For instance, reading about specific terms for the many kinds of snow or frost in languages like Inuit or Scots makes you consider how intimately language is tied to our surroundings. Each word opens a window into how different cultures perceive and interact with the natural world.
Beyond the words themselves, they provide thoughtful context, often weaving in folklore, history, and literary references that deepen your appreciation of winter. The narrative that accompanies each word gives so much meaning, turning what could be a simple list into a rich exploration of human experience and memory.
What’s most striking about A Winter Dictionary is how it elevates everyday moments. Suddenly, the act of noticing frost on your window or feeling the bite of a cold wind becomes infused with a deeper meaning. The book encourages mindfulness, asking us to pay attention to the world around us, to notice the subtleties of the season and appreciate how language can enrich that awareness.
A Winter Dictionary is a thought-provoking, with a deeper meaning on the power of words and the season they describe. This is a book for anyone who loves language, who enjoys the beauty of the changing seasons, or who simply wants to slow down and reflect on the world in a more nuanced, poetic way. It’s a reminder that words can shape how we experience the world around us, and that even in the depths of winter, there is warmth to be found in language.
Thank you to NetGalley and Elliot & Thompson for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: A Winter Dictionary: A Collection of Words for the Festive Season by Paul Anthony Jones

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey there, fellow book lovers! I just finished reading A Winter Dictionary: A Collection of Words for the Festive Season by Paul Anthony Jones, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. This isn’t your typical dictionary; it’s a delightful dive into the rich vocabulary that beautifully encapsulates the winter season.

As the chilly nights creep in and winter starts to weave its magic, this book presents a treasure trove of unique words that perfectly capture the essence of the season. From quirky terms like "frost-dogs" (those adorable little frozen snowflakes) to "Stepmother's breath" (a sudden, frosty chill that makes you shiver), Jones takes us on a journey through language that’s both fascinating and fun. He even introduces us to "hibernaculum," which, let’s be honest, is just a fancy word for a cozy winter hideaway. And who can forget "crapulent"? You know, that feeling you get after enjoying one too many festive treats!

What I really appreciated about this book is the way it’s structured. Each entry kicks off with a word in bold, followed by its part of speech and a neat definition. But here’s where it gets interesting: Jones doesn’t stop there! Each definition is paired with backstories and etymological nuggets that add depth and context. Sometimes, there’s even a fitting quote that ties everything together. It feels more like storytelling than just flipping through a reference book.

The collection is thoughtfully divided into 11 chapters, starting and ending with transitional winter terms. There are sections dedicated to celebrating the joys of the season—think Christmas and New Year—as well as chapters that touch on the more restless and melancholic emotions that can surface during these colder months. And let’s not forget the weather words! From enchanting snowfalls to fierce ice storms, Jones covers it all.

I found myself dipping into this book whenever I had a spare moment, exploring each chapter at my own pace. The diversity of words from various time periods and languages—Old Norse, Old English, Latin, Dutch, and more—kept me engaged and eager to learn more about the origins of these terms. It’s like a cozy blanket of words wrapped around me during those chilly evenings!

In conclusion, A Winter Dictionary is a charming blend of education and entertainment that will warm your heart (and maybe your vocabulary) this festive season. If you're looking for a unique way to embrace the winter months, I highly recommend picking up this delightful read. It’s perfect for those cozy fireside evenings or when you just want to ponder the beauty of winter through the lens of language. Happy reading!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was an educational read and I found a few words to describe things I have noticed or experienced but have never had a name for before such as frigolabile and meteorotropism and I was especially interested in learning some more words from my own heritage (Scots Gaelic). The abbreviation list at the beginning is helpful for those who haven’t used a dictionary in a while (abbreviation for slang and phrase) and helpful to me to make sure I was interpreting the country/origin correctly/ I liked the traditional dictionary bit in bold then a more in depth explanation provided below to help me better understand the word and found that the word finder is great as I will definitely remember some and forget their meaning.

We adored this book. I had hoped for something to read myself whilst looking forward to Winter but was very surprised by how much the children took from this book. I suspect that the words and phases will punctuate our Winter season. I probably won't tell them that we are expanding their vocabularies as this could be considered education and not entertainment !

The word nerd in me was so ecstatic to read this book. So many words and phrases that I was unfamiliar with. I look forward to adding several to my seasonal vocabulary and social media posts. Love it!

This is a fun collection of words related to all things winter, starting with the end of autumn transition to early winter and ending with the late winter transition into spring. In between there are chapters devoted to various aspects of winter, such as the weather as experienced both outside and from the inside, festive holiday rituals and activities, landscape, and more. It's a delightful assemblage of words, some relatively new, some old, and some archaic. Each entry includes the word, its part of speech, its earliest known use, a definition, and often amusing examples. There's a word list in the back. As someone who loves winter and finds that it always goes by too fast, I loved diving into this winter wonderland of words and could see myself going back to the book again and again at all times of the year. Whether you're a lover of winter, a lover of words, or both, this is a book to appreciate. Highly recommend.

4 stars
I loved this, so many great words to get to know from so many languages and cultures.

'A Winter Dictionary' is a collection of wintry words relating to the festive season, the environment and the emotions that come with this time. The book is divided into 11 chapters, beginning and ending with words for the transitional period into and out of winter. There are chapters for the season's joys: Christmas, New Year and keeping cozy, but also for the period's restlessness and melancholy. The weather-words describe beautiful snows, mists and frosts, but also fierce snowstorms, ice and rain.

I really liked this, and it was a joy to dip into as and when, or to pick a chapter and explore the many descriptive words relating to the central theme. I particularly liked the range of words selected from different time periods and from different ancient and modern languages, from Old Norse, Old English and Latin, to Dutch, Manx and Icelandic.
My favourite word was Powl, with 19th-century origins, meaning "to leave work early to go to the pub"!

I don't really have any complaints about this book! I would really recommend it as a gift to the family logophile.

Thank you very much to Elliott and Thompson and NetGalley for providing an advance reading copy.

What a fun book! Over 400 vocabulary words related to winter, organized by topic (such as changing seasons, winter storms, winter blues, holidays, snowmelt). Words come from old English to modern (but not popular) uses. I honestly didn't find many words I'd ever heard before, and it's so interesting to be able to add some new words to describe my winter experiences. Each word is defined and explained with historical references, etc.

Some of my favorites:

Abscission (the very first word in the book!): the process by which a leaf detaches from its tree in autumn
Darkle- to become gradually darker
Hogamadog- a ball of snow made larger by rolling
Scringing- the crackling sound that ice or frozen ground makes when someone walks across it.
Breard- the first growth of a plant visible above the earth

Overall a great book for anyone who loves language, fun facts, and winter!

A delightful look at some words associated with winter. Most of them are dialect words or words that have fallen out of use, so there are plenty of new words to learn.

The words have been divided into separate categories, so there are ones on the changing season, Ice and Snow, Keeping Cosy, Party Season, and many others.

Some of my favourites were
Boo helly - 5th day before Christmas.
Darkle - the nights drawing in.
Peiskos - a feeling of business that comes from sitting by the fire
Foxing Day - a day that turns out finer than expected.
Subnivium - the ecosystem found beneath the snow..

There are many more to enjoy here.

*Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy in exchange for an honest opinion.*

The Winter Dictionary by Paul Anthony Jones

Paul Anthony Jones's The Winter Dictionary is a treasure trove for language-lovers and anyone who finds magic in the changing seasons. As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter sets in, this delightful collection opens up a world of rare, forgotten, and whimsical words that perfectly capture the beauty and charm of the colder months.

Each entry offers more than just a definition: there’s often an enchanting story or snippet of history attached, giving insight into the origins of these hidden gems of the English language. Jones’s ability to pair words with cultural or historical context breathes life into each entry, making this much more than just a glossary—it’s a celebration of language’s ability to capture the essence of a season.

Perfect for those who appreciate the subtlety of words and want to expand their vocabulary, The Winter Dictionary is the ideal companion for a crisp autumn day or a snowy night in. Whether you’re a word enthusiast or simply looking for a cozy read, this book is sure to warm your heart as it deepens your appreciation for the season's unique beauty.

This would make and amazing gift and/or coffee table book in winter.

As the weather turns colder, this is a lovely reference-type book with words that evoke images and feelings of the colder months. I think a physical book would be a better option than a digital version as it's a lovely book to leave out on the coffee table for perusing at leisure.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in excahnge for an honest review.

The Winter Dictionary was an enjoyable read that got me in the mood for winter/Christmas (even though summer has only just finished).

In terms of what you can expect.. it’s a dictionary but with a bit more going on to make it more entertaining. Each entry starts with a word in bold, followed by its part of speech and a concise definition. Beneath the definition, there’s often an interesting backstory or further explanation, including the word's origins or etymology, which adds historical or cultural context. And sometimes there’s a quote mixed in to fit the theme of the word. For me personally, I love to see an unexpected Joan Didion quote so this format worked for me!

Also this part surprised me, even as an English person who recognises we all talk about the weather too much: Research has shown that nine out of ten British people will have spoken to someone about the weather within the last six hours (while around a third will have talked about it in the last sixty minutes).

This is a dictionary of words associated with Winter, organized by topic such as Keeping Cozy or Winter Storms. It's a cute coffee table book for Winter.