Cockney

Alternative forms

• Cockney

Full definition of cockney

Noun

1. a native or inhabitant of parts of the East End of London
• MacaulayA cockney in a rural village was stared at as much as if he had entered a kraal of Hottentots.
2. the accent and speech mannerisms of these people
3. (obsolete) An effeminate person; a spoilt child.
• 1592, Nasha young heir or cockney, that is his mother's darling
• ShakespeareThis great lubber, the world, will prove a cockney.

Usage notes

Traditionally, applies only to those born within earshot of the bells of St Mary-le-Bow, Cheapside

Adjective

1. of, or relating to these people or their accent

Derived terms

• cockney rhyming slang