Publisher's Synopsis
The 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue is a comprehensive guide to the slang and colloquial language used by the lower classes in England during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Written by Captain Francis Grose, a British antiquarian and lexicographer, the book contains over 4,000 entries, including definitions, examples, and etymologies.The dictionary covers a wide range of topics, from crime and punishment to sex and sexuality, and includes many terms that were considered taboo or offensive at the time. It also provides insights into the social and cultural context of the period, revealing the attitudes and beliefs of the working-class people who used this language.Despite its humorous tone and irreverent content, the 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue is a valuable historical document that sheds light on a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of English language and culture. It remains a popular reference work for scholars, linguists, and anyone interested in the history of slang and colloquial language.The knees. To bring any one down on his marrow bones; to make him beg pardon on his knees: some derive this from Mary's bones, i.e. the bones bent in honor of the Virgin Mary; but this seems rather far- fetched. Marrow bones and cleavers; principal instruments in the band of rough music: these are generally performed on by butchers, on marriages, elections, riding skimmington, and other public or joyous occasions.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
