Here are some examples of words with origins in the common folk:
* "Bosh": This word, meaning nonsense or rubbish, comes from the Turkish word "boş," meaning empty or void. It is believed to have entered the English language through the language of travelers and traders who interacted with the Ottoman Empire.
* "Bloke": This slang term for a man, often used in British English, is believed to have originated in the 18th century from the Dutch word "blok," meaning block or chunk. This likely refers to the physical strength and resilience of working-class men.
* "Chuffed": This word meaning delighted or pleased comes from the old English term "chuff," which meant a clown or fool. This may have originated in the practice of common folk making light of their own struggles and hardships with humor.
* "Gobsmacked": This word, meaning stunned or astonished, is a blend of "gob" (mouth) and "smacked." The word "gob" was a common term used to describe the mouth, and "smacked" often referred to a blow or a sudden impact.
* "Lousy": This word, used to describe something unpleasant or inferior, derives from the word "louse," a parasitic insect that commonly infested the clothing and bedding of the poor.
These are just a few examples, and there are many more words that have their origins in the everyday language of the common folk. The study of etymology (the history of words) can reveal fascinating insights into the social and cultural contexts in which language is used.
It's important to note that, over time, these words often become incorporated into the mainstream vocabulary and may even be considered standard English. This is part of the natural evolution of language, with words shifting their status and usage based on the needs and experiences of the community.