Lexicon Balatronicum. A Dictionary of Buckish Slang, University Wit, and Pickpocket Eloquence compiled originally by Captain Grose. And now altered and enlarged, with the Modern Changes and Improvements by a Member of the Whip Club

Grose, Francis

Published by Printed for C. Chappel, Pall-Mall, London, 1811

About this Item

First edition thus (fourth overall, originally published as Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, 1785). 1 vols. 8vo. Francis Grose (1731-1791) was the lexicographer of the low life: his dictionary of vulgar and slang words, which appeared under several different titles, was the most complete of the eighteenth century, and appeared in numerous editions (including a facsimile reprint in 1968). It is interesting to note that some slang has been transformed by time into "normal" usage: freshman, lop-sided, lag; other has survived in slightly altered form: "to kid" (coax), "hidebound" (stingy); and much of it has disappeared entirely. Among the many examples of the latter are such gems as "Mousetrap: The parson's mousetrap; the state of matrimony", "Uphills: False dice that run high", "Scandal Broth: Tea", and "Lawful Blanket: A wife". Reading this book is like eating peanuts once you begin, it's hard to stop. Vancil, p. 103; O'Neill G-43 Contemporary quarter black calf and marbled boards. Some rubbing. Very good plus First edition thus (fourth overall, originally published as Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, 1785).

Seller Inventory # 319351

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Lexicon Balatronicum. A Dictionary of Buckish Slang, University Wit, and Pickpocket Eloquence compiled originally by Captain Grose. And now altered and enlarged, with the Modern Changes and Improvements by a Member of the Whip Club
• Publisher: Printed for C. Chappel, Pall-Mall, London
• Publication Date: 1811
• Binding: 1 vols. 8vo
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Seller catalogs:
  • Social Thought