The Life of Slang

What is slang and its "life cycle" of development? Taking the position that language is alive, the author aims to answer questions for general readers. We might easily recognize slang, but can we explain why we label certain language as such? Coleman (English language, Univ. of Leicester; The History of Cant and Slang Dictionaries) brings expertise to the subject, incorporating language quotes into her discussion (this is not a dictionary-style listing of phrases). With deep historical knowledge and a UK-centric perspective, Coleman surveys slang from the Middle Ages to the present and provides examples from around the English-speaking world. Need to distinguish among standard and colloquial language, jargon, and slang? Wonder why so much slang emerged from the military and schools? Coleman provides answers. Employing a chatty tone, she explains the role of the Oxford English Dictionary in etymology instead of assuming readers already understand such context. Still, the topic's depth, together with its supporting references, keep the work scholarly.