Here's a breakdown:
1. Early Theories:
* "Cook's Egg": One theory suggests that "Cockney" came from "cock's egg," a term for a misshapen egg. This is connected to the idea of a "cockney" being someone born in the city, where eggs were often sold in a less than perfect state. However, this theory lacks strong evidence.
* "Cock's Eye": Another theory connects "Cockney" to "cock's eye," referring to the small, enclosed area of London, specifically the area around the church of St. Mary-le-Bow in Cheapside. This theory also lacks strong evidence and has been largely dismissed.
2. The Dominant Theory:
* "Middle English "cokenay": The most likely origin of "Cockney" is the Middle English word "cokenay," which referred to a "coddled" or "pampered" person. This term originally applied to people who were "born in the city" and who were not accustomed to the hardships of rural life.
3. Evolution of the Term:
* Over time, "cokenay" evolved into "Cockney," and its meaning shifted slightly. It came to refer to people who were born and raised in London's East End, specifically within the sound of Bow Bells. This area was historically known for its working-class population.
* Today, "Cockney" is often associated with a specific accent, vocabulary, and cultural identity of London's East End, though the term is often used in a broader sense to refer to anyone from London.
In summary, the most likely origin of "Cockney" is the Middle English word "cokenay," meaning "coddled" or "pampered," referencing the urban upbringing of those born in London. The term evolved over time to specifically refer to people from the East End of London, and now encompasses a broader cultural identity associated with London's working class.