The British slang for feet is plates of meat, or more commonly, simply plates.
Understanding "Plates of Meat"
This colloquialism originates from Cockney rhyming slang, a distinctive form of English slang primarily associated with the working class in the East End of London. This linguistic tradition involves replacing a word with a phrase that rhymes with it, and then often dropping the rhyming part of the phrase, leaving only the first word.
The Rhyme and Its Shortening
In the case of "feet," the rhyming phrase chosen is "plates of meat." While the full phrase "plates of meat" can be used to refer to feet, it is very common for speakers to shorten it to just the first word, "plates", making it an abbreviated form of the original rhyming phrase. This shortening is typical in Cockney rhyming slang, where only the initial part of the phrase is retained as the slang term.
For clarity, consider the structure of this slang:
| Original Word | Rhyming Slang Phrase | Common Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| Feet | Plates of meat | Plates |
| Girl | Twist and twirl | Twist |
Usage and Context
The term "plates" or "plates of meat" for feet is primarily heard in informal contexts within British English, particularly among those familiar with or originating from areas where Cockney rhyming slang is prevalent. It adds a unique, historical flavour to everyday conversation. For instance, one might hear, "My plates are killing me after all that walking!"
This type of wordplay highlights the rich and evolving nature of British slang, which often incorporates wit and cultural specificities into its vocabulary.
