A History of Cant and Slang Dictionaries

The first of three volumes comprising a complete history of the recording of English cant and slang - the jargon of sport, trade, and crime - which give unparalleled insights into the history of slang and the people who used it. Provides information on words and their meanings such as 'ziff' (a young thief), and 'arsworm' (a diminutive fellow).