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General

woolly back

What does woolly back mean?

A person from the areas surrounding Liverpool rather than the city proper. The longer form of 'wool'.

"They're all woolly backs out that way."

Origin

Linked to rural labourers with wool on their backs coming into the port; the source of the clipped 'wool'.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'woolly back' mean?
It's a Scouse term for someone from the areas surrounding Liverpool rather than the city proper. It's the longer form of 'wool'.
Is 'woolly back' an insult?
It's a mildly derogatory or teasing term marking someone as an outsider from outside the city, though tone varies.
Where does the term come from?
It's linked to rural labourers who came into the port with wool on their backs, and it gave rise to the clipped form 'wool'.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.