Street
beak
What does beak mean?
In British thieves' cant a 'beak' is a magistrate or judge before whom a criminal is brought.
"He was up before the beak by morning for the night's mischief."
Origin
British cant, 18th century; origin uncertain.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'beak' mean in British slang?
It means a magistrate or judge, especially the one a criminal is brought before in court.
Where does 'beak' come from?
It's British thieves' cant dating to the 18th century, though its exact origin is uncertain.
How is 'beak' used?
To describe being taken to court: 'He was up before the beak by morning.'
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