The only problem with it is that, true to its time, there are some racist and mysogynistic overtones to some of the definitions [the only reason it didn't get a full five]. But if you can see around these as simple dating of the text to the acerbic, razor sharp wit that permiates the pages of this book you're sure to get a good snicker or two out of it yourself.

My personal favourite? The definition for "Saint" [def: "A dead sinner revised and edited"]. Maybe I'm just a cynic myself, but this book always gives me a giggle when I'm in a black mood.


Funnier than the Devil   February 19, 2003
The Devil has nothing on Bierce, (except maybe a pretty good blackmail file with color photographs). Bierce plays with the English language and presents his cynical and humorous view of the world. Biting satire would be appropriate here if the use of an ordinary dictionary were permitted. With Bierce's included definition: "Satire, n. An obsolete kind of literary composition in which the vices and follies of the authors enemies were expounded with imperfect tenderness." However, this book isn't obsolete, but becomes more evidently true as time goes on. An excellent list of definitions that insult everyone in general and everyone in particular. This book is a necessary tool to carry in your pocket and correct people's definitions at cocktail parties. You could tell people the definition of a Saint, 'n. A dead sinner revised and edited'. Someone should start a movement to canonize Bierce, since he qualifies for Sainthood by his own definition.


Witty little dictionary   February 18, 2003
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Webster's this ain't. Ambrose Bierce, a very angry and witty man, wrote down his personal definitions (1881 to 1906) of various things and concepts, which were eventually compiled into "The Devil's Dictionary." The result is immensely funny in a twisted kind of way.

A bigot is "one who is obstinately and zealously attached to an opinion that you do not share." Disobedience is "the silver lining on the cloud of servitude." Brute is "see: Husband." Patience is "a minor form of despair, disguised as a virtue." Philosophy is "a route of many roads leading from nowhere to nothing." And that's just a few...

Weirdly funny, twistingly witty. It's an enjoyable, very politically-incorrect book that will be over before you want it to be.


good clean witty fun   December 8, 2002
This little book is a great way to put things in percpective. Its witty humor and precise sarcastic definitions will take the edge of any bad day.