[6] The word Slang, as will be seen in the chapter upon that subject, is purely a Gipsey term, although now-a-days it refers to low or vulgar language of any kind,—other than cant. Slang and Gibberish in the Gipsey language are synonymous; but, as English adoptions, have meanings very different from that given to them in their original.
[7] The vulgar tongue consists of two parts: the first is the Cant Language; the second, those burlesque phrases, quaint allusions, and nick names for persons, things, and places, which, from long uninterrupted usage, are made classical by prescription.—Grose’s Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, 1st edition, 1785.
[8] “Outlandish people calling themselves Egyptians.” 1530.
[9] In those instances, indicated by a *, it is impossible to say whether or not we are indebted to the Gipseys for the terms. Dad, in Welsh, also signifies a father. Cur is stated to be a mere term of reproach, like “Dog,” which in all European languages has been applied in an abusive sense. Objections may also be raised against Gad and Maund.
[10] Jabber, I am reminded, may be only another form of GABBER, GAB, very common in Old English, from the Anglo-Saxon, GÆBBAN.
[11] This very proverb was mentioned by a young Gipsey to Crabb, a few years ago.—Gipseys’ Advocate, p. 14.
[12] I except, of course, the numerous writers who have followed Grellman, and based their researches upon his labours.
[13] Gipseys of Spain, vol. i., p. 18.
[14] Shakes. Hen. IV., part 2, act ii, scene 4.
[15] It is easy to see how cheat became synonymous with “fraud,” when we remember that it was one of the most common words of the greatest class of cheats in the country.