18th Century Lingo
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In the late 18th century, English slang was rich with unique terms and phrases that have since fallen out of common use. Here are some examples:
- Arsy Varsey: To fall arsy varsey, i.e. head over heels.
- Betwattled: Confused or bewildered.
- Dicked in the nob: Silly or crazed.
- Gigglemug: A habitually smiling face.
- Gollumpus: A large, clumsy fellow.
- Pish Posh: Balderdash, Nonsense.
- Shipwrecked: Inebriated.
- Wake Snakes: Provoke to the uttermost.
These phrases were part of a vibrant slang culture that often evolved from the need for secrecy among criminals and the general evolution of language.
https://colonialbrewer.com/2021/07/08/swear-and-profanity-in-18th-century-england/
https://sites.udel.edu/britlitwiki/eighteenth-century-grammars/
https://www.quia.com/jg/2252000list.html
https://www.ranker.com/list/great-18th-century-slang/zach-seemayer