Slang Origins: Tracing the History of English Language Slang

By Alexander

May 23, 2025

In Linguistics

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What is Slang? Defining Informal Language

Before we delve into the history, let's define what we mean by "slang." Slang is informal language that is typically spoken rather than written and is specific to a particular group or context. It often consists of newly coined words or phrases or the novel use of existing words. Unlike standard language, slang tends to be ephemeral, with terms rising and falling in popularity over time. It can reflect societal changes, youth culture, and even technological advancements.

The Early Days: Roots of Slang in the English Language

The history of slang in the English language is as old as the language itself. From its earliest roots, English has borrowed, adapted, and invented words and phrases to express new ideas, social identities, and rebellious attitudes. One of the earliest forms of slang can be traced back to the criminal underworld. Terms were developed as a secret language among thieves and other outlaws, designed to confuse outsiders and protect their activities. These terms often found their way into broader society.

Elizabethan England: Slang in Literature and Theatre

The Elizabethan era was a golden age for English literature, and also a fertile ground for the development and spread of slang. Playwrights like William Shakespeare frequently incorporated slang into their works, using it to create vivid characters and add color to their dialogue. Terms like "swagger," "dwindle," and even "eyeball" are attributed to Shakespeare, showing how slang could enter the mainstream. The bustling urban centers of London, with their diverse populations and social strata, served as melting pots for linguistic innovation.

18th and 19th Centuries: Growth of Urban Slang and Jargon

As cities grew during the 18th and 19th centuries, so did the diversity and prevalence of slang. Urban centers became hubs of linguistic creativity, with different social groups developing their own unique slang terms. Occupational jargon, or specialized vocabulary used within a particular profession, also contributed to the evolution of slang. For instance, sailors, soldiers, and miners all had their own slang terms that reflected their experiences and activities. The rise of newspapers and popular literature helped to spread slang terms throughout society, making them more accessible to a wider audience.

20th Century Slang: Influence of Music and Pop Culture

The 20th century brought about unprecedented changes in slang, largely influenced by music, film, and other forms of popular culture. Jazz music in the 1920s and 30s, for example, generated a wealth of new slang terms that reflected the energy and spirit of the era. Words like "cool," "cat," and "hip" originated in the jazz scene and quickly spread into mainstream usage. Similarly, Hollywood movies and television shows introduced new slang terms to a mass audience, shaping popular language and culture.

Slang and Subcultures: The Language of Identity

Slang is often closely associated with subcultures, serving as a way for members of a particular group to express their identity and solidarity. From the Beatniks of the 1950s to the hippies of the 1960s and the punks of the 1970s, each subculture has its own unique slang terms that reflect its values and worldview. These slang terms often serve as a badge of belonging, signaling membership in a particular group and distinguishing members from outsiders. The LGBTQ+ community has also developed a rich history of slang, providing a language for self-expression and community building.

The Digital Age: Internet Slang and Online Communication

The internet has revolutionized communication, and it has also had a profound impact on the evolution of slang. The rise of social media, online gaming, and instant messaging has given rise to a whole new vocabulary of internet slang. Acronyms like "LOL," "OMG," and "BRB" have become ubiquitous in online communication, while emoticons and emojis have added a visual dimension to slang. Internet slang is constantly evolving, with new terms and trends emerging on a daily basis. The speed and reach of the internet have accelerated the spread of slang, making it more dynamic and global than ever before.

How Slang Enriches the English Language

While some people may view slang as a corruption of the English language, it actually plays an important role in its evolution and enrichment. Slang allows speakers to express new ideas and emotions in creative and innovative ways. It keeps the language fresh and dynamic, reflecting the changing needs and values of society. Many slang terms eventually become accepted into mainstream usage, enriching the vocabulary and expanding the expressive capabilities of the English language. Words like "mob," "snob," and "paparazzi" all started as slang terms before becoming standard English vocabulary.

The Future of Slang: Predicting Language Trends

Predicting the future of slang is a challenging task, as it is constantly evolving and adapting to new social and technological trends. However, we can expect that the internet and social media will continue to play a major role in the development and spread of slang. We can also expect that slang will continue to reflect the diversity and dynamism of contemporary culture. As new generations come of age and new social movements emerge, they will inevitably create their own slang terms to express their unique perspectives and experiences.

The Enduring Appeal of Slang: Why We Use Informal Language

Slang is more than just a collection of words and phrases; it is a reflection of who we are, where we come from, and how we see the world. It allows us to express ourselves in creative and innovative ways, to connect with others who share our values and experiences, and to signal our membership in particular social groups. Whether we love it or hate it, slang is an integral part of the English language and a testament to its enduring vitality and adaptability. The history of English language slang will continue to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing dynamics of society and the human desire for connection and self-expression. Exploring this history provides insights into our culture and how we use language to shape our world. So, embrace the slang, explore its origins, and celebrate the ever-evolving nature of language!