Cockney rhyming slang

Cockney rhyming slang is an amusing and much under-estimated part of the English language. Originating in London's East End in the mid-19th century, Cockney rhyming slang uses substitute words, usually two, as a coded alternative for another word. The final word of the substitute phrase rhymes with the word it replaces (for example - the cockney rhyming slang for the word 'look' is 'butcher's hook'). When only the first word of the replacement phrase is used, as is usual, the meaning is difficult to guess (i.e. 'butchers' = 'look').

Rhyming slang began 200 years ago among the London east-end docks builders. Cockney rhyming slang then developed as a secret language of the London underworld from the 1850s, when villains used the coded speech to confuse police and eavesdroppers. Since then the slang has continued to grow and reflect new trends and wider usage. Many original cockney rhyming slang words have now entered the language and many users are largely oblivious as to their beginnings.

Cockney rhyming slang has a significant and colourful presence in the English native language. Many Londoners and British people will be surprised to learn that some of the best known English expressions originated from cockney rhyming slang.

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Some examples of Cockney Rhyming Slang include:


Adam and Eve = believe ('would you adam and eve it?')

Boat (boat race) = face

Bristols (Bristol Cities) = titties (breasts)

Christmas crackers = knackers (testicles)

Daisy Roots = boots

Dog and bone = phone

Elephants (elephants trunk) = drunk

Farmers (farmer Giles) = piles (haemorrhoids)


Hampstead Heath = teeth

Joe Soap = dope (stupid man)

Lionel Blairs = flares (flared trousers)

Merchant banker = wanker

Minces (mince pies) = eyes

Niagra Falls = balls (testicles)

Skin and blister = sister

Sky rocket = pocket

Tea leaf = thief

Trouble (trouble and strife) = wife

Turkish bath = laugh

Whistle (whistle and flute) = suit

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