A Journey Through the History of Slang in English

By Putri

May 03, 2025

In Linguistics

0

Slang. The word itself has a bit of an edge, doesn't it? But what exactly is slang, and where did it all come from? The history of slang is a fascinating journey through social change, cultural shifts, and the ever-evolving landscape of the English language. It’s a story of rebellion, innovation, and the constant desire to express ourselves in new and exciting ways. Forget dusty textbooks; we're diving deep into the vibrant, often surprising, world of slang!

What Exactly IS Slang, Anyway? Defining Informal Language

Before we delve into the history of slang, let's nail down a definition. Slang isn't just bad grammar or lazy language. It's a specific type of informal language, characterized by its novelty, its association with particular social groups, and often, its short lifespan. Think of it as the linguistic equivalent of a trending meme – it's hot, it's relevant, and it might be gone tomorrow. Unlike jargon, which is specialized vocabulary used within a profession or group, slang is often intended to be exclusionary, marking those 'in the know' and setting them apart from the mainstream.

It's also important to distinguish slang from colloquialisms. Colloquialisms are informal words or phrases common in everyday speech within a specific region or community. They are generally accepted and understood by a wider audience. Slang, on the other hand, is often more transient and can be highly specific to a particular subculture or time period. Understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the dynamic nature of language.

The Ancient Roots: Early Examples of Slang

The history of slang isn't a recent phenomenon. While pinpointing the very first slang word is impossible, we can find evidence of informal, non-standard language use dating back centuries. Even in ancient Greece and Rome, there were forms of colloquial speech and expressions used by specific groups, such as soldiers or students. These early examples, though not always precisely what we'd consider 'slang' today, demonstrate the enduring human tendency to create unique linguistic identities.

Consider the language of the medieval guilds. Craftsmen and merchants developed their own specialized terms, some of which may have spilled over into more general use, carrying a slightly subversive or insider connotation. As far back as written records exist, people have been inventing and using informal words and phrases to express themselves, solidify group identity, and sometimes, to deliberately obfuscate meaning from outsiders.

Shakespeare and the Rise of Modern English Slang

The Elizabethan era, and particularly the works of William Shakespeare, provides a rich source of early modern English slang. Shakespeare was a master of language, and he wasn't afraid to incorporate the vernacular of his time into his plays. Words and phrases that might have been considered slang at the time found their way into his works, giving us a glimpse into the informal language of the period.

For example, terms like "swagger," "fusty," and even some of Shakespeare’s more colorful insults, likely had slang origins. His plays were performed for diverse audiences, from the nobility to the commoners, and his use of slang helped to connect with them on different levels. Shakespeare’s contribution to the history of slang is significant; he not only preserved examples of it but also helped to popularize and legitimize its use in literature.

The 18th and 19th Centuries: A Golden Age for London Slang

The 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in London, witnessed an explosion of slang. The city was a melting pot of cultures, classes, and criminal elements, all contributing to a vibrant and ever-changing linguistic landscape. This era saw the rise of 'flash language,' a type of criminal slang used by thieves, prostitutes, and other members of the underworld.

Dictionaries of slang began to appear during this period, documenting the colorful and often shocking language of the streets. These dictionaries provide invaluable insights into the history of slang, revealing the social and cultural contexts in which these words and phrases emerged. From 'buzzkill' (originally referring to someone who informs on others) to 'crib' (meaning a house or dwelling), many slang terms from this era have surprisingly enduring legacies, though their meanings might have shifted over time. The proliferation of slang in London during this period reflected the city's rapid growth, social inequalities, and the emergence of distinct subcultures.

20th Century Slang: Jazz, Jive, and the Television Age

The 20th century brought with it a whole new wave of slang, influenced by jazz music, the rise of youth culture, and the increasing dominance of mass media. The jazz era, in particular, was a fertile ground for slang. Musicians and their fans created their own vocabulary, filled with cool and expressive terms that reflected the spirit of the music. Words like 'cool,' 'cat,' and 'dig' entered the mainstream from the jazz scene, forever changing the landscape of English slang.

The advent of television further accelerated the spread of slang. Popular TV shows introduced new words and phrases to a mass audience, and these terms quickly became part of the everyday vocabulary. The 20th century also saw the emergence of distinct regional slangs, reflecting the diverse cultural identities of different parts of the United States and the United Kingdom. From 'groovy' to 'far out,' the history of slang in the 20th century is a testament to the power of popular culture to shape language.

The Digital Age: Internet Slang and the Future of Language

The internet has revolutionized the history of slang in the 21st century. The speed and reach of online communication have led to the rapid creation and dissemination of new slang terms. From acronyms like 'LOL' and 'BRB' to internet-specific words like 'meme' and 'viral,' the internet has created its own unique linguistic landscape. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for slang, with new words and phrases emerging and evolving at an unprecedented pace.

Internet slang is characterized by its brevity, its informality, and its visual nature. Emojis, GIFs, and other visual elements often accompany slang terms, adding another layer of meaning and expression. The future of slang is undoubtedly tied to the internet, and it will be fascinating to see how online communication continues to shape the evolution of language. The speed and reach with which slang terms now circulate globally is unprecedented, presenting both opportunities and challenges for understanding and interpreting contemporary communication.

Why Does Slang Matter? The Social Significance of Informal Language

Beyond its entertainment value, the history of slang reveals much about the social and cultural forces that shape our language. Slang serves several important functions. It allows us to express ourselves creatively, to signal our membership in a particular group, and to challenge social norms. Slang can be a powerful tool for social commentary, allowing us to express dissent, satire, and humor.

Studying slang provides insights into the values, attitudes, and concerns of different social groups. It can reveal the hidden dynamics of power, identity, and belonging. By understanding the history of slang, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human communication and the ever-evolving nature of language. The very act of creating and using slang can be seen as a form of linguistic rebellion, a way of resisting the constraints of formal language and asserting one's individuality.

The Evolution Continues: Predicting Future Slang Trends

Predicting the future of slang is a tricky business. What's cool today might be cringe-worthy tomorrow. However, by looking at current trends and social developments, we can make some educated guesses about the direction in which slang is headed. The increasing influence of technology, the growing diversity of our society, and the continued blurring of lines between formal and informal communication are all likely to shape the slang of the future.

We can expect to see more slang terms emerge from online communities, from gaming culture, and from marginalized groups. The language of activism and social justice is also likely to contribute to the evolution of slang. The history of slang teaches us that language is always in flux, and that the future of slang will be just as unpredictable and fascinating as its past. Embracing this dynamism is key to understanding not only language, but the broader cultural forces that shape it.

Resources for Exploring the History of Slang

If you're interested in learning more about the history of slang, there are many excellent resources available. The Oxford English Dictionary is a comprehensive source for etymological information, including the origins of many slang terms. Websites like Urban Dictionary provide user-generated definitions and examples of contemporary slang. Books on the history of slang, such as