A DICTIONARY OF THE UNDERWORLD British and American

Hardback. First pub. in 1949 this US edn. has been reprinted with a new Addenda. A comprehensive exploration of the slang and terminology used by criminals and marginalised groups across Britain, America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa. It catalogues the language of crooks, criminals, racketeers, beggars, tramps, convicts, and those involved in illicit trades like drug trafficking, the white slave traffic and spivs. The dictionary traces British terms back to the 16th century and American ones to the late 18th century, offering approximate origins, etymologies, and contextual notes for each entry. The author's work is both a linguistic study and a social history, revealing how language reflects the subcultures it emerges from. Its detailed entries, such as obscure phrases like “witch-hazel man” (heroin addict), make it a valuable resource for writers, historians, and enthusiasts of role-playing games, providing an authentic glimpse into the shadowy corners of society. With Abbreviations and Principal Short References. 817pp. 4to. h/back. With tiny label to fpd, lightly browned edges, light wear to head/tail of sp. o/w Vg. in sl. frayed a chipped protected Nr. Vg. dw. A heavy book which will require additional postage.