back slang etymology

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:

  • Boarf (barf)
  • Ecigam (magic)
  • Yob (boy)
  • Ofneh (phone)
  • Enil (line)
  • Yram (Mary)

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.

back slang relate terms

  • back

    Etymology The word back is derived from the Old English word bæc which meant back

  • ridge

    Etymology The word ridge comes from the Old English word hrycg meaning back or s

  • slang

    Etymology of Slang Originated in the 18th century as a shortening of slangwhanger a

  • hype

    Etymology First attested in English in the 1890s Shortened form of hyperbole which

  • naff

    Etymology The word naff is believed to have originated from the Romani Gypsy word n

  • Chinese

    Etymology The word Chinese is derived from the Sanskrit word Cina which was first u

  • phat

    Etymology The word phat is derived from the Greek word phatos which means speech o

  • flaky

    Etymology The word flaky is derived from the Old English word flace which means a p

  • doll

    Etymology Old English dōlle dulle Proto Germanic dukkǭ Proto Indo European dʰu

  • desultory

    Etymology The word desultory originates from the Latin word desultor which means v

  • exorcism

    Etymology The word exorcism comes from the Greek word exorkizomai which means to a

  • Russia

    Etymology The name Russia derives from the medieval state of Rus which itself origina