polari

Polari is a form of cant or slang that developed in Britain, used primarily by gay men in the mid-20th century, but also adopted by some actors, sailors, traders, and other subcultures. It emerged from a mix of sources, including Italian, Romani, Yiddish, and various English and cant slang traditions, and functioned as a coded means of communication in environments where homosexuality could be stigmatized or criminalized. The term Polari refers both to the broader social practice and to the distinctive vocabulary that speakers drew upon.

As a linguistic system, Polari is best described as a lexicon rather than a fully formed language. It incorporated words and phrases borrowed from its diverse influences, blended with English grammar and wordplay. Polari was often used to discuss topics related to sexuality, nightlife, fashion, and social interaction in a way that was intelligible to insiders but opaque to outsiders. Its use fostered solidarity and allowed speakers to navigate spaces—clubs, theaters, and public venues—where their identities might otherwise be policed or judged.

Polari declined after the decriminalization of homosexual acts in 1967 and broader social changes, though it left a lasting imprint on LGBT history and culture. In recent decades, scholars and historians have studied Polari as an early example of a coded language used by marginalized communities, and renewed interest has produced glossaries, research, and popular media that document its vocabulary and historical role.