Cockney Rhyming Slang: The Language of London - Softcover

Smith, Daniel

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1782434828 ISBN 13: 9781782434825

Publisher: Michael O'Mara, 2015

Synopsis

The definitive guide to the vibrant and inventive language of the East End, featuring history, trivia and anecdotes.

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 phrases.

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 slang 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.

About this title

Review:

Try this: explores the history and meanings of phrases both famous and obscure. (The Times)

It's handy, sure, and a right old laugh. (Loaded)

An enjoyable read. (Best of British)

About the Author:

Daniel Smith is a non-fiction author and editor who has written across a range of subjects, including politics, economics and social history. He is the author of The Ardlamont Mystery: The Real-Life Story Behind the Creation of Sherlock Holmes, and the 'How to Think Like ...' series for Michael O'Mara Books, which has been published in 20 languages and sold over 413,000 copies worldwide. He is also a long-time contributor to The Statesman's Yearbook, the geo-political guide to the world that celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2013. He lives in London with his wife and two children.

About this edition

• Publisher: Michael O'Mara
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 1782434828
• ISBN 13: 9781782434825
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160