General
scarper
What does scarper mean?
To run away or escape quickly. The origin is debated: it may come from Italian 'scappare' (to escape) via Polari/Parlyaree, or from Cockney rhyming slang 'Scapa Flow' = go.
"Charpering omi! Scarper!"
Origin
Polari and Cockney slang; the derivation is disputed — either Italian 'scappare' (to escape) via Parlyaree, or rhyming slang 'Scapa Flow' = go — a dual origin both Paul Baker and slang lexicographers acknowledge.
Frequently asked questions
What does scarper mean?
It means to run away or flee quickly.
Where does scarper come from?
It is disputed: possibly Italian 'scappare' (to escape) via Polari, or Cockney rhyming slang 'Scapa Flow' = go.
Is scarper rhyming slang?
It may be — from 'Scapa Flow' rhyming with 'go' — but an Italian-via-Polari origin is equally likely.
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