How Much is a Score in Money?

Are you familiar with Cockney slang? If not, you're in for a treat! Cockney slang is a fascinating language variation that originated in the East End of London. One of the most intriguing phrases you might come across is "score," which carries a completely different meaning in this vibrant dialect.

Cockney slang is known for its creativity and sense of humour, often involving rhymes and wordplay. So, if you're curious about the unique language that adds a touch of charm to London's streets, join me as we delve into the world of Cockney slang and explore the fascinating meaning behind the term "score.".

Key Takeaways

• In Cockney slang, a "score" refers to £20. The term originated from a secret code language used by criminals in the 18th century, where "score" represented a notch or tally for £20.
• Cockney slang is known for its creativity, wordplay, and rhyming patterns. It adds a touch of charm and humour to the language, making it a unique and vibrant dialect.
• Cockney slang features various other phrases for different amounts of money, such as "Lady Godiva" for £5, "Pony" for £25, "Ton" for £100, and "Monkey" for £500. These phrases demonstrate the playful and inventive nature of Cockney slang.
• Cockney slang has had a significant impact on the English language and British culture. Its phrases and expressions have become part of everyday usage and have been featured in literature, movies, and music. Despite some decline in recent years, efforts are made to preserve and celebrate Cockney slang as a part of London's rich history and heritage.

How Much Is a Score in Money?

A Score is £20 in money slang used in the United Kingdom. The term originates from historical usage of "score" amongst criminals to represent 20. It is a shorthand used in certain contexts to refer to a specific monetary value. Other terms for a score include a 'Bobby'.

To truly understand the meaning of "score" in Cockney slang, it's important to explore its origin and history. The term dates back to the 18th century, where it was originally used as a code word amongst criminals and thieves to refer to money. The word "score" in this context was derived from the Old Norse word "skor," meaning notch or tally. Criminals would keep a tally of their ill-gotten gains, and £20 would be represented by a notch or score on a stick or piece of paper. 

Over time, this secret code language made its way into the wider East End community, becoming an integral part of Cockney culture. The term "score" became synonymous with £20, and its usage spread beyond the criminal underworld. Today, it continues to be used by Cockneys to refer to a specific amount of money, adding a touch of nostalgia and tradition to their vibrant dialect.

Modern Day Use of a 'Score'

While Cockney slang has its roots in the working-class communities of the East End, its usage and popularity have extended far beyond its original boundaries. Today, Cockney slang is recognised and understood by people from all walks of life, both within and outside of London. Brits still use the term Score. It has become an iconic part of British culture, featured in literature, movies, and even everyday conversations.

If you were to use it in language, you may ask your mate for a score, "Can I borrow a score?".

Other Slang Terms for a Score

I've heard people use Bobby as a replacement for Score, this is typical rhyming slang. It comes from the Name Bobby Moore. The famous England football captain. Bobby Moore rhymes with Score, hence the shortened version, 'a bobby'. It's a bit convoluted. 

Other Cockney Slang Terms For Money

While "score" may be one of the most well-known Cockney slang terms for money, it's not the only one. Cockney slang is rich in creativity and wordplay, and there are various other phrases used to refer to different amounts of money. Here are a few examples:

• "Lady Godiva" - £5: This phrase refers to the famous English noblewoman who rode naked through the streets of Coventry. In Cockney slang, "Lady Godiva" rhymes with "fiver," hence the connection to a £5 note.
• "Pony" - £25 - a Pony refers to a £25 sum. The term originated from the Latin words 'legem pone,' meaning 'payment of money.'
• "Ton" - £100: A Ton in money, derived from the word "tonne," meaning a large unit of weight, this term represents a significant amount of money. In Cockney slang, "ton" rhymes with "ton," making it an easy and memorable way to refer to £100.
• "Monkey" - £500: The phrase, a monkey, in money, has its roots in Indian culture, where the 500-rupee note featured an image of a monkey. Cockneys adopted this term to represent a substantial sum of money.

These examples highlight the playful nature of money in Cockney slang and how it incorporates rhymes and associations to create unique phrases for different denominations of money.

How to Understand Cockney Slang

If you're intrigued by Cockney slang and want to learn more, there are several ways to immerse yourself in this vibrant language variation. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Immerse yourself in Cockney culture: Visit the East End of London, explore local markets, and interact with the locals. Hearing Cockney slang in its natural environment will help you understand its nuances and context.
• Watch movies and TV shows featuring Cockney characters: Many British films and television shows showcase Cockney slang, providing an entertaining and authentic way to familiarise yourself with the dialect. Pay attention to the context and usage of different phrases.
• Read books and literature set in the East End: Cockney slang has been featured in numerous books and novels, providing a rich source of material to learn from. Look for works by authors like Charles Dickens, who often incorporated the dialect into their writing.
• Use online resources and dictionaries: There are various online resources and dictionaries available that provide translations and explanations of Cockney slang phrases. These can be useful tools for expanding your knowledge and understanding of the dialect.

Remember, learning Cockney slang is not just about memorising words and phrases; it's about immersing yourself in a unique culture and way of life.

Cockney Slang in Music and Entertainment

Cockney slang has made its mark on popular media and entertainment, becoming a beloved aspect of British culture. It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and songs, often used to add authenticity or humour to a character or storyline.

In film, classics like "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" and "Snatch" prominently feature Cockney characters and their colourful language. These movies not only entertain but also showcase the wit and cleverness of Cockney slang.

In music, artists like The Kinks, Madness, and Lily Allen have incorporated Cockney slang into their lyrics, further spreading its influence and popularity. Songs like "Waterloo Sunset" and "Baggy Trousers" capture the essence of Cockney culture and its unique way of expressing everyday life.

Cockney slang's presence in popular media and entertainment ensures that it continues to captivate audiences and be celebrated for its distinctive charm.

Conclusion: The enduring charm of Cockney Slang

If you're intrigued by Cockney slang, there are various ways to learn and understand this vibrant dialect. Immerse yourself in Cockney culture, watch movies and TV shows featuring Cockney characters, and explore the rich literary tradition of the East End. Embrace the wit and creativity of Cockney slang, and you'll discover a fascinating world of language and culture that adds a touch of magic to London's streets. So, the next time you hear someone mention a "score," you'll know exactly what a score in money is.