Slang: A language that rolls up its sleeves, spits on its hands and goes to work – Carl Sandburg.

The Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases, published in 1852 classified and organized the English language in order to simplify communication. Before long, it became an indispensable work for writers, general or professional, seeking a polished style and the most apt expression of their thoughts.

Slang, a language stimulated largely by sex, money and intoxicating liquor and more recently by drugs, has now been ordered by the same method in The Slang Thesaurus. Here are countless examples of rhyming slang, paraphrases, American street talk and Australian terms, arranged under helpful headings and clearly indexed.

This is the invaluable work of reference for people searching for the slang equivalent of a word or phrase for their own work, interest or sheer curiosity.