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Cockney

The origin and history of Cockney.

Etymology

First recorded around 1600, from Middle English cokenay, originally meaning a spoilt or pampered child, later used by country folk as a mocking term for city dwellers.

Origin: Middle English · First attested 1600

Class of 1600

Cockney first entered the language around 1600. Other words from the same year:

See the full Class of 1600 →
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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.