Slovník nespisovné češtiny – Hugo Jan (2020)

This Czech-language dictionary of non-standard Czech covers the periphery of the language, including argot, slang and popular speech from the earliest times to the present, with information on the history and origins of words. The fourth, expanded edition contains more than 19,000 slang and other non-standard expressions, including the language of the underworld, or Czech argot. Historically, this forms part of Central European argot, a mixture of German argot, Romani and Yiddish expressions to which Czech has added its characteristic linguistic creativity. While prison slang slowly evolves, the argot of travelling fairground families is practically the same as it was a century ago. The traditional speech of Brno, including plotňáčtina and hantec, has the same historical origin. Since the previous edition, youth slang has developed particularly strongly, including the language of the drug scene. Professional slangs, including those of craftspeople, are covered in detail, as are forms connected with transport, including motorcycling slang. Entries include notes on the history and etymology of words, revealing hidden meanings, unexpected connections and the impressive age of expressions that may seem modern or vulgar. Circus, theatre and music slang also feature prominently, with contributions from leading figures in Czech artistic life. Many entries include examples that highlight the dictionary’s sociolinguistic dimension, showing how slang offers insight into different areas of life and into the psychology of its users.