Old West Lingo

Writing a book requires discipline and dedication. And when writing a certain genre, research often comes into play. Such is the case for writing western historical romance. 

As the author, I want my story to be as true to the old west as possible. It’s easy for me to envision the outward appearance of a cowboy; Stetson, denims, chaps and spurs. And thanks to Hollywood movies, I have a vivid concept of the towns and saloons they frequented and the ranches they lived and worked on. Even mannerisms come easy to me. Some are the strong, silent type. Others are the quick-tempered, fist-throwing type. But when it comes to the lingo and the slang from their era, that’s where I sometimes draw a blank. But I have a wonderful reference book at my hands to help with this problem, Everyday Life in the 1800’s.  Below are some of the terminology I consider unique and funny:  

Cowboy Phrases:

Barking at a knot—wasting time

Could follow a woodtick on a solid rock—refers to one adept at tracking or following a trail

Doesn’t use up all his kindlin’ to make a fire—someone who doesn’t waste words on small talk

Don’t go wakin’ snakes—don’t make waves (I have used this one)

Loosened his hinges—someone thrown from a horse

Seven by nine—something or someone of inferior or common quality (I have used this one)

Terms:

Coffin varnish—bad coffee

Collar and hames—a stiff collar and necktie

Decorate a cottonwood—to be hung

Grass freight—goods shipped by a team of bulls

Lady broke—a very gentle horse

Muleys—hornless cattle

Parlor gun—another name for a derringer

Pull foot—leave in a hurry

Soaplock—a rowdy

Underwears—cowboy’s contemptuous name for sheep

Crime:

Bedchamber sneak—a thief’s assistant

Bloke buzzer—a pickpocket who specializes in picking the pockets of men only

Calaboose or hoosegow—prison

Kick—code word used by pickpockets to communicate which pocket a wallet is in

Necktie sociable—a hanging (I use this one frequently)

Pettifogger—an unscrupulous lawyer

Rounder—a habitual offender

Scratcher—a forger

Touching a jug—thieves language for robbing a bank