spiv etymology

Etymology:

The term "spiv" is derived from the Yiddish word "shpeyer," which means "saliva" or "spittle." It was adopted into English slang in the early 20th century.

Meaning:

A "spiv" is an informal term used in British English to describe:

• A smartly dressed but shady or dishonest person, especially one involved in petty crime or illegal activities.
• A flashy or boastful person, often with a questionable background.

Origin:

The use of "spiv" to refer to a shady or dishonest person originated in the East End of London in the early 20th century. It was initially applied to Jewish immigrants from Central and Eastern Europe who were perceived as being involved in the black market and other illicit activities.

Over time, the term lost its ethnic association and became more widely used to describe any person who seemed shifty or untrustworthy. It was particularly used to describe the black marketeers and petty criminals who flourished during and after World War II.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the term "spiv" came to be associated with a certain style of dress, characterized by flashy suits, wide ties, and pointed shoes. This stereotype was reinforced by popular culture, such as the British television series "The Spivs" (1960-1961).

Today, the term "spiv" is still used, albeit less frequently, to describe unscrupulous or shady individuals.

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