More British Phrases...dictionary corner

[Benjamin]

Neil wrote:
> I think you mean etymology.  Actually, my dictionary isn't *that* 
big (it's smaller than Goblet of Fire...oh, wait a minute, it's 
absolutely HUGE then), but it is a really good encyclopedic 
dictionary, which tends to explain the etymology of words in more 
detail.  I like reading it just for fun... such a sad life I lead. <g>

'Pandemonium' is my favourite for this etymology stuff (Palace of all 
the demons), I think it was coined by Milton though (as the opposite 
of Panthenon) Which is what got me into this FanFic stuff in the 
first place. 

Neil commented sarcastically:
>Benjamin, are you, perchance, another of Simon's Oxford 'china 
plates'?
 
I am not in Oxford, but that is where I met Simon (who says there is 
no way I should be called Benjamin as it sounds to pompous, sweet 
boy).  I was in Oxford last week.  But not generally.  I doubt I 
could be considered china.  maybe pewter.  or plastic.  or possibly 
railway (as in plate-layer).  That satisfy you okay? ;)

Why china? Or why butchers for that matter.  Why not grocer's hook? 
or somesuch.  Hobson's choice too, which has two meanings.
 
Ben (who doesn't have a dictionary.  Hence the spelling mistakes)

"Two sheep, perchance two bream?" - Simon Drew