Oxbridge

Oxbridge

OXBRIDGE /หˆoxbridge/
Noun United Kingdom

A portmeanteau of Oxford and Cambridge used to refer to a person who attended either or a particular ‘Oxbridge’ mindset. The ivory tower. Used to separate the two oldest universities from other ‘lesser’ provincial universities.

Example Sentences

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

Etymology & History

Portmanteau of Oxford and Cambridge universities. Britain's oldest and most prestigious universities (Oxford 1096, Cambridge 1209). Together represent academic elite and social privilege. Rivalry and collegiality between them.

Word Details

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

Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition

British Slang from A to Zed

By Jonathan Thomas

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