Polari is a unique form of slang that was used by the LGBTQ+ community in Britain from the 19th century up until the mid-20th century. It consisted of a mixture of Italian, Romani, Yiddish, and Cockney Rhyming slang, as well as some English words. It was primarily used by gay men and lesbians, as well as actors and musicians, as a form of secret language to communicate with one another and evade detection by the authorities, who often discriminated against and targeted the LGBTQ+ community.

While Polari fell out of common use by the 1970s, its influence can still be seen in modern LGBTQ+ slang and terminology. Many words and phrases that were originally part of Polari have been adopted and adapted by the LGBTQ+ community, both as a way to connect with their history and to assert their identity in a language that is uniquely their own.

One of the most well-known examples of Polari influence on modern LGBTQ+ slang is the word “camp.” In Polari, “camp” originally meant “effeminate” or “homosexual,” but it has since been reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a term of pride and celebration of queer culture. Similarly, the word “drag” has its roots in Polari, where it was used to refer to women’s clothing worn by gay men. Today, “drag” is commonly used to describe the art form of drag performance, where performers of any gender dress in exaggerated and theatrical clothing and makeup.

Other examples of Polari influence on modern LGBTQ+ slang include words like “cottage” (to refer to a public toilet used for anonymous sexual encounters), “tea” (gossip or information), and “naff” (tasteless or uncool). These words have all been incorporated into the lexicon of the LGBTQ+ community, where they are used to communicate shared experiences and create a sense of community and belonging.

In addition to specific words and phrases, the use of Polari as a form of coded language has also influenced the way that LGBTQ+ people communicate with one another. Just as Polari was used as a way to communicate in secret and evade detection, many LGBTQ+ people today use coded language and gestures to identify themselves to others within the community. This can be seen in the use of handkerchiefs or pins worn in specific colors to indicate one’s sexual orientation or kink preferences, as well as in the use of slang and euphemisms to talk about LGBTQ+ experiences and identities.

Overall, the influence of Polari on modern LGBTQ+ slang and terminology is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of oppression and discrimination. By reclaiming and repurposing the language of the past, LGBTQ+ people have been able to create a vibrant and dynamic language that reflects their history, culture, and identity. As LGBTQ+ people continue to fight for equality and acceptance, the use of Polari and other forms of queer language will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in shaping the community and asserting its presence in the wider world.