My Favorite Quotes From ‘The Devil’s Dictionary’ by Ambrose Bierce
A sarcastic word nerd’s paradise
If you’re a word nerd and you love dry humor, The Devil’s Dictionary* by Ambrose Bierce is definitely the read for you. Bierce’s satirical version of a dictionary provides a sardonic alternative to many common definitions that are sure to make you chuckle. The following are some of my favorites.
“Bacchus, n. A convenient deity invented by the ancients as an excuse for getting drunk.”
“Bride, n. A woman with a fine prospect of happiness behind her.”
“Quotation, n. The act of repeating erroneously the words of another.”
“Admiration, n. Our polite recognition of another’s resemblance to ourselves.”
“Love, n. A temporary insanity curable by marriage or by removal of the patient from the influences under which he incurred the disorder. This disease, like caries and many other ailments, is prevalent only among civilized races living under artificial conditions; barbarous nations breathing pure air and eating simple food enjoy immunity from its ravages. It is sometimes fatal, but more frequently to the physician than to the patient.”
“Dentist, n. A prestidigitator who, putting metal into your mouth, pulls coins out of your pocket.”
