This updated and expanded edition of a popular title explains the meanings and origins of almost 4,000 clichés and common expressions. Each entry in The Facts On File Dictionary of Clichés, Second Edition includes the meaning of the cliché or expression, its origin and early uses, the historical development of the phrase, and its present-day usage.

For this second edition, the author has added approximately 500 new clichés, including many from the business world, such as “drum up”, “fork over”, and “go belly-up"; from the military, such as “the balloon goes up”, “body count”, and “mickey mouse”; and from popular novels, especially mysteries and thrillers. Other new clichés include "bells and whistles", "yada yada yada", and "whatever".

The Facts On File Dictionary of Clichés, Second Edition is the largest, most comprehensive, and most entertaining reference of its kind. Fully indexed and cross-referenced, The Facts On File Dictionary of Clichés, Second Edition is an essential resource for students, writers, and anyone seeking the gift of gab.