How would you describe the cockney accent?
Cockney represents the basilectal end of the London accent and can be considered the broadest form of London local accent. It traditionally refers only to specific regions and speakers within the city. While many Londoners may speak what is referred to as “popular London” they do not necessarily speak Cockney.
How do you know if you are a Cockney?
What is a true Cockney? You can technically only be a Cockney if you were born in the East End of the city. To be really specific, you must have been born within the sound of Bow bells. These are the bells of St Mary-le-Bow church in Cheapside.
What are the origins of Cockney rhyming slang?
It was first used in the early 19th century in the East End of London; hence its alternative name, Cockney rhyming slang. In the United States, especially the criminal underworld of the West Coast between 1880 and 1920, rhyming slang has sometimes been known as Australian slang.
How was Cockney rhyming slang used?
Cockney rhyming slang was first used to disguise what you wanted to say to avoid the police . Also, Cherry ‘Hogs – was used iif you were going to the dogs, as in Dog racing.
What is Cockney rhyming slang?
Cockney rhyming slang is a humorous slang first used by cockneys in the east end of London and now understood widely in London and throughout Britain. It was invented in London in the 1840s by market traders, costermongers (sellers of fruit and vegetables from handcarts) and street hawkers.
What is a true Cockney?
A true Cockney is someone born within earshot of London’s Bows Bells which peal from St. Mary Le Bow Church in the city’s centre. In 1850, anyone living six miles to the east, five miles to the north, three miles to the south and four miles to the west of the Bows Bells was considered a Cockney.