Jiggery-pokery

Jiggery-pokery

JIGGERY-POKERY /หˆjiggery-pokery/
Noun United Kingdom

Deceitful behavior.

Example Sentences

"That's a proper Jiggery-pokery, that is."
"I've never seen such a Jiggery-pokery in all my life."

Etymology & History

British term for dishonest manipulation or trickery, possibly from Scottish 'joukery-pawkery' (trickery). First recorded in the 1890s. Often used in political contexts. More colorful than 'trickery', less harsh than 'cheating'. Characteristic British duplicative phrase.

Word Details

๐Ÿ“
Region
Scottish
๐Ÿ“…
Era
Modern
โœ“
Language
Mild
๐Ÿ’ฌ
Formality
Informal
Categories:
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition

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