Dick (slang)

Dick is a common English slang word for the human penis.[1] It is also used by extension for a variety of slang purposes, generally considered vulgar, including as a verb to describe sexual activity and as a pejorative term for individuals who are considered to be rude, abrasive, inconsiderate, or otherwise contemptible.[1] In this context, it can be used interchangeably with jerk, and can also be used as a verb to describe rude or deceitful actions. Variants include dickhead, which literally refers to the glans. The offensiveness of the word dick is complicated by the continued use of the word in inoffensive contexts, including as both a given name (often a nickname for Richard) and a surname, the popular British dessert spotted dick,[2] the novel Moby-Dick, the Dick and Jane series of children's books,[3] and the American retailer Dick's Sporting Goods.[4] Uses such as these have provided a basis for comedy writers to exploit this juxtaposition through double entendre.[citation needed]

  1. ^ a b Eric Partridge, Paul Beale, A Dictionary of Slang and Unconventional English (1984), p. 305.
  2. ^ Ayto, John (2012). The Diner's Dictionary: Word Origins of Food and Drink. Oxford University Press. p. 349. ISBN 9780199640249.
  3. ^ Elizabeth Tandy (June 9, 2003). "Reading With and Without Dick and Jane: The Politics of Literacy in c20 American, a Rare Book School exhibition". University of Virginia. Retrieved July 8, 2019.
  4. ^ Begley, Sarah (February 28, 2018). "What to Know about Edward Stack, the CEO of Dick's Sporting Goods". Time. ISSN 0040-781X. OCLC 1311479. Retrieved June 7, 2018.