When did cockney rhyming slang start?

It's impossible to pinpoint the exact date when Cockney rhyming slang originated. It's a language that developed gradually over time, and there's no single definitive starting point. However, historians and linguists believe it likely emerged in the 18th or 19th centuries.

Here's why:

* Origins in the East End: Cockney rhyming slang is closely associated with the working class communities of London's East End. This area saw significant growth and change during the 18th and 19th centuries, with a rise in poverty, crime, and distinct working-class cultures. This environment likely contributed to the development of a coded language.

* First Recorded Mentions: While early examples are hard to find, some believe the earliest recorded uses of Cockney rhyming slang appear in late 19th century literature and plays.

* Evolutionary Nature: Cockney rhyming slang isn't static. It's a living language that continues to evolve and change over time. New rhymes are introduced, old ones fall out of use, and meanings can shift.

While the exact origins remain unclear, it's safe to say Cockney rhyming slang has roots in the working-class culture of the East End of London, likely emerging during the 18th or 19th centuries.