Cockney rhyming slang originated as a secret code among the thieves of London's East End. Adopted by costermongers and market traders, it fast became a vibrant patois that defined a community, confused the police and evolved to include ever more colourful rhyming phrasees. Constantly updated and added to ever since, and fostered by Londoners citywide, it has long enlivened the streets of one of the world's most quirky and fascinating capitals.
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Cockney rhyming slang originated as a secret code among the thieves of London's East End. Adopted by costermongers and market traders, it fast became a vibrant patois that defined a community, confused the police and evolved to include ever more colourful rhyming phrasees. Constantly updated and added to ever since, and fostered by Londoners citywide, it has long enlivened the streets of one of the world's most quirky and fascinating capitals.
Cockney Rhyming Slang explores the origins and meanings of both commonly used and lesser-known phrases, taking in traditional sland as well as modern additions. Combining history, trivia, quotes and anecdotes, it is the definitive guide to cockney rhyming slang for locals and language lovers alike.
