Argot

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈɑːɡoʊ/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A specialized set of vocabulary or expressions used by a particular group, often to exclude outsiders. 2. (Noun) A jargon or slang, typically used by a specific profession, subculture, or social group.

Usage Examples

• The thieves communicated in an argot that only they understood.
• Journalists often use argot to refer to technical or specialized terms related to their field.
• The hacker community has developed a complex argot to keep their discussions private.

Etymology

The term "argot" is derived from the French word "argot," meaning the language of a group or a particular profession, which has unknown origins but is possibly linked to the "argotiers," a group of beggars and thieves in Paris during the 16th century. The word began to refer to a specialized vocabulary used by secretive or marginalized groups.

Synonyms

• Jargon
• Slang
• Colloquialism
• Code
• Cant

Antonyms

• Standard language
• Formal language
• Proper speech
• Clear speech

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the term is pronounced with a slightly softer 'g' sound, /ˈɑːɡəʊ/.
• In American English, it is pronounced with a more pronounced 'g' sound, /ˈɑːɡoʊ/.

Historical Usage

The term "argot" has been used since the 16th century to refer to the secret language used by thieves and criminals in France. It later expanded to encompass the specialized language used by any marginalized or closed group. Over time, "argot" began to be applied to various forms of jargon or slang across different professions and subcultures.

Cultural Nuances

Argot often serves as a marker of identity and solidarity within a group. For example, it can be used to signal membership in a particular social or professional community, or to differentiate the group from outsiders. It can also act as a protective barrier, allowing members to communicate freely without outsiders understanding. While once associated with secrecy or illegality, it is now used more broadly to denote any specialized language or jargon.

More Information

Argot is a fascinating aspect of linguistic culture that reflects how language evolves to serve social and practical needs. From its roots in criminal circles, it has expanded into almost every field, including business, technology, and pop culture. Modern-day argot includes slang terms used in online communities, tech jargon, and even the language of gaming. As languages continue to evolve, so too will the argot of various groups.