Street
rapper
What does rapper mean?
In old cant a 'rapper' is someone who informs, testifies, complains, or prosecutes, i.e., 'raps' on another criminal.
"The case fell apart when the rapper changed his story."
Origin
American underworld slang; from 'rap,' to accuse or charge.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'rapper' mean in old underworld slang?
It refers to someone who informs, testifies, complains, or prosecutes, in other words, one who 'raps' on another criminal.
Is this the same as a music 'rapper'?
No. This is old underworld cant meaning an accuser or informer, unrelated to the musical sense of the word.
Where does 'rapper' in this sense come from?
It comes from American underworld slang, from 'rap,' meaning to accuse or charge.
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