The first comprehensive dictionary of the field of sociolinguistics this is a valuable reference book for students and teachers of sociolinguistics others concerned with the socially oriented study of language and those with a professional interest in language Entries are concise the style is reader friendly and numerous cross references enable readers to follow up links to related terms and concepts Sociolinguistics is characterised by increasing heterogeneity and students are faced with a proliferation of theories concepts and terminology This is sometimes a minefield with similar terms used rather differently within different academic traditions The dictionary provides a broad coverage of sociolinguistics including macro and micro sociolinguistics and a range of approaches within variationist interactional critical and applied traditions In explaining sociolinguistic terminology the dictionary is able to map out the traditions and approaches that comprise sociolinguistics and will thus help readers find their way around this fascinating but complex subject The authors have taught and researched widely across different areas of sociolinguistics They also draw on their experience of working in different geographical areas including the USA UK and Europe Australia southern Africa and the Indian subcontinent FeaturesCovers topics relevant to a broad range of disciplines including anthropology psychology sociology and education as well as linguisticsOrganised alphabetically with terms explained in a non technical wayIncludes an extensive bibliography