Best of
Language
1785
The Vulgar Tongue: Buckish Slang and Pickpocket Eloquence
Francis Grose - 1785
The canting or slang language A fascinating and hilarious collection of all the words and phrases that raised eyebrows in the 18th century. The original 1796 alternative dictionary of 'The Vulgar Tongue', educated readers in the correct usage of colloquialisms, slang and old English idioms. Includes those familiar entries such as 'mealy-mouthed', originally meaning over-modest, and revives classics that should never have been forgotten, such as 'apple dumplin shop' for a woman's bosom, 'nit squeeger' (a hairdresser) and 'flaybottomist' (a teacher). So, you won't be a 'Jason's Fleece' if you buy this book. In fact, take full advantage of the Vulgar Tongue and you'll be much less of a 'nigmenog'. No true aspiring vulgarite should leave home without it!