Book description
We like to recount that goodbye started out as "god be with you," that whiskey comes from the Gaelic for "water of life," or that avocado originated as the Aztec word for "testicle." But there are many words with origins unknown, disputed, or so buried in old journals that they may as well be lost to the general public. In Origin Uncertain: Unraveling the Mysteries of Etymology, eminent etymologist Anatoly Liberman draws on his professional expertise and etymological database to tell the stories of less understood words such as nerd, fake, ain't, hitchhike, trash, curmudgeon, and quiz, as well as puzzling idioms like kick the bucket and pay through the nose. By casting a net so broadly, the book addresses language history, language usage (including grammar), history (both ancient and modern), religion, superstitions, and material culture. Writing in the spirit of adventure through the annals of word origins, Liberman also shows how historical linguists construct etymologies, how to evaluate competing explanations, and how to pursue further research.
SereneScribe
I love how this app's user-friendly interface allows me to navigate through chapters and controls effortlessly. I can't believe I waited this long to discover the joy of audiobooks through this app. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. Tone adjustment is so cool. It's like customizing the reader's voice to my liking. CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently.
StarStrider
I'm hooked on this app – it's like Netflix for book lovers! ⏰ Waking up to audiobooks – mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! ☀️🎧 Great app! ListenBook supports so many formats, and the playback is always smooth.
Chuckles
ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful – I'm hooked! The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. I can group related titles for easy access.
MythMaker
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats means I can listen to all my favorite content without worries. I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily activities. 🏃♂️📚 Combining exercise and exploration – this app keeps me motivated on my daily jogs! 🏃♂️📖 ListenBook has made my daily commutes enjoyable. No more boredom!
Icy Avenger
With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. ListenBook's statistics feature is eye-opening. I had no idea how much time I spent immersed in audiobooks until I started using it. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is a game-changer! ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
ByteBard
The sound quality is outstanding – it's like having a movie theater in my ears! is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content.
WeldMaster
The app's layout is clean and intuitive, making it a pleasure to navigate. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and precise controls make it a joy to use every day. This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it the perfect companion for any audiobook lover. This app's convenience has transformed my screen time into meaningful reading sessions. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
Sweetness
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time.
Trip
This app makes traffic jams a breeze – time flies by while I'm engrossed in a story. AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends. ListenBook has become my workout companion. It keeps me engaged and entertained during exercise.
JK Friend
ListenBook's library organization and book groups have made managing my audiobooks a breeze. This app's library is a treasure trove – I'm always discovering new favorites. ListenBook is a game-changer – it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app is packed with useful features.
Mad Jack
With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever. Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing. ListenBook’s support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Mad Viral
💼 Making work hours fly by with captivating stories – a true work-life balance! 💻📖 🎙️ This app's user-friendly interface has transformed my daily walks into immersive storytelling sessions. Kudos to the developers! 🚶♀️📖 Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Killer Merlot
This app has brought the magic of books back into my life. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. I’m blown away by how feature-rich ListenBook is. From the customizable themes to the car mode, everything is designed with the user in mind. The app works flawlessly, and I’ve had zero issues with crashes or bugs. Highly recommend!
Versace-Cat
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. I'm impressed by ListenBook's dedication to providing a comfortable listening experience. Navigating audiobooks effortlessly – this app's functionality is commendable. The sleek and user-friendly interface makes navigating the app a breeze. It's a pleasure to use.
California Goddess
Thanks for making my daily commute to work enjoyable and engaging! 💼 Balancing responsibilities with relaxation – audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. 💻📖
Popeye Wipeout
I'm amazed by ListenBook's versatility in handling different formats – it truly supports all my audio needs. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app! A decent listen overall. The narration was clear, though some character voices sounded similar. The story was interesting but had moments where it dragged slightly. Still, it was a good way to pass the time.
Snout Pixie
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Freeze Queen
With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. Organization made easy! This app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures I'm always engrossed in a captivating tale. 📖📱
Wrangler Jim
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. ListenBook has given me a renewed appreciation for audio content – it's my new favorite app. Elevating my reading experience to a whole new level, this app's user-friendly interface and easy navigation have me hooked. Audiobooks have never been this enjoyable! 📱🔊 The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. Great app! ListenBook supports so many formats, and the playback is always smooth.
Commando
The narrator's voices are so engaging, it's like having a personal storytelling session. ListenBook's smooth playback and easy navigation ensure that my audiobook experience is always top-notch. This app has enriched my daily routine and added a touch of intellectual stimulation. Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. 📚📱 The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver!
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience