What's in a name?

Why is Argentina named after a metal it never had? Why does Germany have six completely different names across world languages? Why does the country of Timor-Leste literally mean "East East"?

What's in a Name? is a journey through all 195 countries on Earth - exploring the hidden stories, forgotten empires, colonial accidents, and remarkable coincidences that gave each nation its name.

Every entry includes:

• Etymology & linguistic roots - where the name actually comes from
• Historical context - the events that shaped it
• Name through time - a visual timeline of how it changed
• Former & alternative names - what it used to be called
• What citizens are called - demonyms and their quirks
• A surprising fun fact - the detail that changes how you see the country

You'll discover that Canada is named after a single Iroquoian word for "village," misheard by a French explorer. That Pakistan is the only country whose name was invented as an acronym by a student in a foreign country. That Moldova is named after a river that was reportedly named after a dog. That the bikini swimsuit is named after a Pacific atoll devastated by nuclear tests.

From Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, this beautifully designed A-Z reference book is essential reading for:

• Curious travellers and armchair explorers
• Geography and history enthusiasts
• Trivia lovers and pub quiz devotees
• Students and teachers
• Anyone who has ever looked at a map and wondered: why is it called that?

192 countries. One page each. A world of stories behind every name.