English Explanatory Dictionary

billingsgate

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Profane, abusive language; coarse words.
verb
  1. To use profane, abusive language towards.
name
  1. A ward of the City of London, Greater London, England.

Word forms

billingsgate billingsgates billingsgating billingsgated Billynges gate

Etymology

From the London, England fishmarket Billingsgate: "Billingsgate is the market where the fishwomen assemble to purchase fish; and where, in their dealings and disputes they are somewhat apt to leave decency and good manners a little on the left hand." (Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, 1811).

Derived words

billingsgate Billingsgate Fish Market Billingsgate pheasant
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