Street
schtum
What does schtum mean?
Silent or quiet; 'keep schtum' means to say nothing, especially to the authorities.
"Whatever happens, keep schtum."
Origin
From Yiddish 'shtum' (silent), itself from German 'stumm'; East End Jewish influence.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'keep schtum' mean?
It means to stay silent and say nothing, often about a secret or to the authorities.
Where does 'schtum' come from?
From the Yiddish 'shtum' meaning silent, itself from the German 'stumm'. It entered London slang through the East End Jewish community.
How do you use 'schtum'?
Almost always in the phrase 'keep schtum', as in 'Whatever happens, keep schtum.'
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