Polari, a secret language used by the gay subculture in Britain from the 19th century until the 1960s, has long intrigued linguists and historians alike. Its origins can be traced back to the British theater and circus communities, where it served as a form of code language to communicate discreetly about sex, relationships, and other taboo topics.

The term “Polari” is believed to have originated from the Italian phrase “parlare,” meaning “to talk.” It was a mixture of Italian, Romani, Yiddish, rhyming slang, backslang, and other languages, spoken in a playful and exaggerated manner. Polari was characterized by its use of coded words and phrases, such as “naff” for straight or heterosexual, “bona” for good, and “vada” for see or look.

Polari’s development as a secret language can be traced to the persecution and criminalization of homosexuality in Britain during the 19th and 20th centuries. With homosexuality deemed illegal and stigmatized, gay men needed a way to communicate with each other without arousing suspicion from the authorities or the general public. Polari provided a means of identification and solidarity within the underground gay community.

In addition to its use in the theater and circus communities, Polari was also adopted by sailors, criminals, and members of the British armed forces. Its influence can be seen in the writings of authors such as William Burroughs, Joe Orton, and Julian Maclaren-Ross, who incorporated Polari into their works to convey a sense of subversion and countercultural identity.

Despite its clandestine nature, Polari eventually became more widely known in the 1950s and 1960s, thanks in part to the popularity of radio and television programs such as “Round the Horne” and “Julian and Sandy.” These programs featured characters who spoke in Polari, introducing the language to a broader audience and cementing its place in popular culture.

With the decriminalization of homosexuality in Britain in the late 1960s, the use of Polari declined, and the language largely fell out of use. However, its influence can still be seen in modern slang and LGBTQ+ culture, with some Polari words and phrases continuing to be used as a form of campy humor or nostalgia.

Today, Polari remains a fascinating and important part of LGBTQ+ history, serving as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of marginalized communities in the face of oppression. By uncovering the roots of Polari and tracing its origins and development, we gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the queer community throughout history.