Brave New Words – The Oxford Dictionary of Science Fiction edited by Jeff Prucher, Oxford University Press, 2007, soft cover edition 2009, non-fiction
I’m not sure how this one slipped past me, but I just came across it and immediately had to get a copy. No, it’s not that old, so maybe it doesn’t qualify as forgotten so much as unnoticed.
This dictionary of science fiction terms won a Hugo Award in 2008 for non-fiction, and it’s easy to see why. Loaded with words, names, and terms having their derivation in science fiction, the well-read SF fan will recognize most, but probably not all, of the contents here, but may be surprised, pleased and reminded of books they have read or intend to read.
There’s a lot of “Oh, I didn’t know that’.” between the covers here, and that’s half the fun.
This isn’t a books to read straight through, though it’s easy to get caught up in browsing right along, but is great for having handy when there are a few minutes to kill before something else requires your attention. Or maybe you want to keep it handy for reference. However you choose to use this, you’ll be glad you have it.
Tip the Wink 
I was wondering where you were this morning. I don’t know this one, but I bet George will be ordering a copy.
Apparently I only thought I posted last night before bed, but in fact only did “Update”. Only when Todd alertly emailed to say the link I sent didn’t work did I realize the error. So, here, finally, at last, is the post. (celebrations ripple throughout the world-wide-web).
So, what’s your favorite (so far) that you didn’t realize had an SFnal derivation?
I wasn’t familiar with the term hypopaedia, though I know the concept. It’s “sleep learning”. Huxley first used it in 1932’s Brave New World, then Padgett used it in “Jetting Pilot” in the May ’47 ASF. Cool. The book is fascinating.
wow, that would be a cool reference
It is, Charles, and I got a like-new copy for half cover price. You’d love this one.
Jeff is right: I am ordering a copy. I’ver never seen or heard of Brave New Words – The Oxford Dictionary of Science Fiction. But I have to own it!
I thought you’d like this one, George. It’s very cool, a blast to browse.
Maybe I’ll get a copy even if I am not a big reader of Science Fiction, I’m still intrigued. Thanks for letting me know about this, Richard. I love anthologies that have to do with booky stuff.
Intriguing, but Oxford still owes me $20 for something I wrote for them.