The Little Book of Brummie Slang, Sayings, History & Humour

The definition of slang, according to the Oxford Dictionary, is ‘a type of language consisting of words and phrases that are regarded as very informal, are more common in speech than in writing, and are typically restricted to a particular context or group of people’.

Thus, the choice of a phrase, or the use of ‘slang’, a saying, or abbreviation can accurately reflect our links to a specific place, employment or situations that impact upon us in our everyday lives.

Birmingham slang and dialect has its origins in the industrial growth of Birmingham in the 18th and 19th centuries. As workers migrated to work from other places in the United Kingdom the local accent evolved.

As Birmingham expanded as a city and other diverse groups arrived, they brought their own versions of slang and sayings with them which blended with those that were already in use. ‘Brummies’ became established, and the local accent makes them unique to other parts of the country.

This little book contains 1,000 slang words, phrases and historical references. It is not an academic study, rather it is designed to enable reflection on previous life experiences and above all else to improve awareness of Britain’s ‘Second City’.

Published 12th June 2026