argot - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

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argot

|ar-got|

🇺🇸

/ˈɑɹɡoʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈɑːɡəʊ/

specialized/secret vocabulary

Etymology

Etymology Information

'argot' originates from French, specifically the word 'argot', where it denoted a 'cant' or secret vocabulary used by criminals and marginal groups.

Historical Evolution

'argot' was borrowed into English from French (18th–19th century) with the meaning 'thieves' cant' or 'secret jargon' and entered English usage as 'argot'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'the secret slang of thieves or criminals,' but over time it broadened to mean the specialized vocabulary or jargon of any group.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a specialized vocabulary or set of expressions used by a particular group, often to exclude or be unintelligible to outsiders (synonymous with jargon or slang).

Many subcultures develop their own argot to keep outsiders from understanding them.

Synonyms

jargon slang lingo

Antonyms

standard languageplain languageeveryday speech

Noun 2

a secret or coded language used by a subgroup (often criminals) so that outsiders, including authorities, cannot understand them; also called cant.

Police struggles to penetrate the gang's argot and uncover their plans.

Synonyms

cantthieves' cantsecret slang

Antonyms

open speechpublic language