The rhyming slang for 'fart' is raspberry tart.
Understanding Rhyming Slang
Rhyming slang is a form of word play that originated in the East End of London, England, in the 19th century. It involves replacing a word with a phrase that rhymes with it, and then, in many cases, omitting the rhyming part of the phrase, leaving only the non-rhyming part. This makes the slang somewhat cryptic to those unfamiliar with it.
For instance, the term "raspberry tart" rhymes with "fart." Over time, the "tart" part is often dropped, leaving just "raspberry" as the stand-in for "fart." This is the origin of the common expression "blowing a raspberry," which refers to making a sound by sticking out one's tongue and blowing, often to mimic the sound of flatulence.
Common Rhyming Slang Examples
To better illustrate how rhyming slang works, here are a few other well-known examples:
| Original Word | Rhyming Slang Phrase | Common Usage (Shortened) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head | Loaf of bread | Loaf | Head |
| Look | Butcher's hook | Butcher's | Look |
| Stairs | Apples and pears | Apples | Stairs |
| Talk | Bottle of pop | Bottle | Talk |
The Evolution of Rhyming Slang
Originally, rhyming slang was used by market traders, criminals, and members of the working class as a secret language. Today, many rhyming slang phrases have become widely known and are understood by people beyond London, especially in the UK and other Commonwealth countries.
The creative nature of rhyming slang allows for new phrases to emerge, though only a select few become popular enough to enter common parlance. The humor and wit involved in creating these phrases contribute to their enduring appeal.
For more information on the history and examples of rhyming slang, you can explore resources like Wikipedia.
