Polari

Also par·la·ry

[puh-lahr-ee, paw-]

noun

1. a distinctive English argot in use since at least the 18th century among groups of theatrical and circus performers and in certain gay and lesbian communities, derived largely from Italian, directly or through Lingua Franca.

Polari

/ pɑːˈljɑːrɪ, pəˈlɑːrɪ /

noun

1. an English slang that is derived from the Lingua Franca of Mediterranean ports; brought to England by sailors from the 16th century onwards. A few words survive, esp in male homosexual slang

Word History and Origins

Origin of Polari¹

First recorded in 1845–50; ultimately from Italian parlare “to speak, talk”; parle

Word History and Origins

Origin of Polari¹

C19: from Italian parlare to speak

Example Sentences

The Polari Prize's organisers have now said it would not be awarded this year but they hoped it would return in 2026.

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Following Dinan's resignation, the Polari Prize said it "completely understands and respect her decision".

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Boyne then released a statement standing by his views and thanking the Polari Prize for "standing strong in the face of extraordinary intimidation".

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But on Monday, Polari announced this year's prize would not be going ahead.

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Polari said it had consulted authors, judges, stakeholders and funders, and had "decided to pause the prize this year while we increase the representation of trans and gender non-conforming judges on the panels" and undertake a governance and management review.

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