The language of London : cockney rhyming slang

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. This beautifully presented and accessible guide is the perfect companion to learning the phrases of London's East End and the interesting origins behind Cockney Rhyming Slang - a language first invented as a secret code among the thieves of London's underworld. Organized thematically, rather than alphabetically, this book allows the reader to gain a full and comprehensive understanding of how to use a range of cockney phrases in each given scenario. Covering all the popular, traditional cockney phrases, as well as some more modern additions that aren't as well known, hundreds of sayings are featured and explained. So, if you're gagging to get your Hampstead Heath into popular reference at its most fascinating, pull up a Vanity Fair, pour yourself a cup of Rosie Lee and get stuck into this highly entertaining Captain Cook. This beautifully packaged and accessible guide is the perfect companion to learning the phrases of London's East End and the interesting origins behind Cockney Rhyming Slang—a language first invented as a secret code among the thieves of London's underworld. Organized thematically, the book allows the reader to gain a full understanding of how to use a range of cockney phrases, covering the popular, traditional phrases, such as "apples and pears"—stairs, "Barnet Fair"—hair, and "sausage and mash"—crash, and some more modern additions. A fun and informative guide to the language of London's East End.