INTERNET ETYMOLOGY DEBUNKED - Slang

The internet is full of lies.  Lies like fake origins for words.

Some say that "slang" is a portmanteau of "s(hortened)-lang(uage)".  It is not.


Although the origins of the word "slang" are unknown and debated, reputable etymology sources trace it back to a term for the special language of thieves (sometimes called Thieves' Cant or Peddler's French).

Of course, that didn't stop it becoming a Sudden Realisation Ralp meme.  Or for former Google executing Vic Gondotra from spreading it on social media or to be accepted as fact by some.

~ DUG.