Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

chi-tty chi-tty b-ang b-ang  

noun 

1. A magical car depicted by Ian Fleming in a novel by the same title 

2. Cockney rhyming slang, for cockney rhyming slang.

In every counrty and community there are different slangs used. One that is particularly interesting and entertaining, is that of the cockneys. Cockney is a term used to describe a person born within the sound of the Bow Bells (the bells of St. Mary-Le-Bow Church, Bow Church) in Cheapside, London EC2. Now, its very important you don't refer to anybody born outside these realms as "cockney" or you might find yourself learning to "read and write". 

Taken from marc-john photographic

 The amazing thing about this slang, is it has been used since at least the 1830's and is constantly modernised and updated throughout the various ages.

Some of the earliest recorded slangs include:

Apple and Pears = stairs.
Barnet-Fair = hair.
Bird-lime = time.
Lath-and-plaster = master.
Oats and chaff = footpath.

 
Even though it takes alot more effort to use the slang term, there is something really special about the cockney rhyming slang, its used withing the community, and used by others. It has an entertainment value, as well as having a long history. Check out these sites I found to find out more information:

http://www.phespirit.info/cockney/

http://www.cockneyrhymingslang.co.uk/

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/cockney-rhyming-slang.html

And - the best english to slang dictionary you can find - http://www.aldertons.com/english-.htm

Also, check out the below video of Stephen Fry (all hail) and his outtake on Cockney Rhyming Slang:

 

Published by the BBC

Now tin lids, its george and zippy out. I'm off to make a cuppa of half past three and settle infront of the custard and jelly :-)