Street
croaker
What does croaker mean?
In some cant a 'croaker' is a killer (from 'croak,' to die/kill); in other underworld usage it means a doctor, especially one who treats criminals off the books.
"They needed a croaker who'd patch a bullet wound and keep quiet."
Origin
British/American slang; from 'croak,' to die.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'croaker' mean?
In some underworld cant it means a killer, from 'croak' (to die or kill). In other usage it means a doctor, especially one who treats criminals off the books.
Why is a doctor called a croaker?
The slang ties to 'croak,' meaning to die, an ironic nickname for an off-the-books doctor patching up injured criminals.
Where does 'croaker' come from?
It is British and American slang derived from 'croak,' meaning to die.
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