How to Understand Cockney Rhyming Slang

Cockney rhyming slang originally sprung up during the 1800s in that area of East London which was within hearing distance of the "Bow Bells" of St Mary-Le-Bow church in Cheapside. Although no one knows for certain why rhyming slang developed, a popular theory is that the locals used it to communicate without giving themselves away to the police.

Instructions

1. Learn the basic rules that apply to the formation of Cockney rhyming slang. One word is replaced by another word or short phrase that rhymes with it. For example, in Cockney rhyming slang the word "believe" becomes "Adam and Eve" as in "Would you Adam and Eve it?"

2. Remember that often only the non-rhyming word is said in the phrase. For example, the rhyming slang phrase for "head" is "loaf of bread." However, you usually would say only the "loaf," as in "Use your loaf!" which means "Use your head." Another common example of this can be heard in the phrase "Let's have a butcher's," meaning "Let's have a look." This comes from the rhyming phrase "butcher's hook."

3. Rent episodes on DVD of "Only Fools and Horses," "Porridge," "Steptoe and Son" and "Till Death Do Us Part." These popular British sitcoms were set in the East End and South East of London. They represent some of the best examples of Cockney rhyming slang in popular culture.

4. Search online for a Cockney rhyming slang dictionary. There are literally hundreds to be found listing the rhyming slang phrases that are used in daily life. The dictionaries produced by BBC America and those written by real Eastenders are the most highly recommended.

Tips & Warnings

• Note that not all Cockney rhyming slang is as innocent as it sounds. The commonly used term "berk" - which implies someone who's a fool - originates from the rhyming slang phrase "Berkshire hunt," which rhymes with a more offensive word.

• Don't overuse rhyming slang phrases in an attempt to appear more British or to fit in with the London culture. Most Cockney terms are rarely used in normal conversation, even by those still living in East London.