Short for “china plate”, meaning mate (friend).
China
Example Sentences
"He's me old china."
"Allright, me old china?"
Etymology & History
Cockney rhyming slang for 'mate' from 'china plate' = mate. One of the most enduring examples of Cockney rhyming slang, dating from the 19th century when china plates were becoming common household items. Often shortened to just 'china' in modern usage.
Word Details
📍
Region
London/Cockney
📅
Era
Victorian
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Slang
Categories:
Learn Another Word
🔀 Shuffle & Discover
Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!