Etymology
The term "back slang" is derived from the practice of reversing the order of syllables in a word or phrase. For example, the word "police" becomes "ecilop" in back slang.
Meaning
Back slang is a type of argot or secret language that uses this reversal of syllables to disguise the meaning of words and phrases. It is often used for humorous or subversive purposes.
Origin
The origin of back slang is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century in England. It was initially used by criminals and members of the underworld as a way to communicate secretly. Over time, it spread to other social groups, including students, entertainers, and working-class communities.
Examples
Some common examples of back slang words include:
Usage
Back slang is typically spoken rather than written, and its use varies greatly by region and social group. It is often used as a form of wordplay or humor, but it can also be used to convey secret messages or to exclude outsiders from a conversation.
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