1. "Quid" as a Shortening:
* Early 17th Century: The term "quid" started as a shortened form of "quid pro quo," a Latin phrase meaning "something for something" or "this for that."
* Early 18th Century: This phrase was commonly used in legal and financial contexts, with "quid" eventually being used as a slang term for money itself.
2. "Quid" Specifically for the Pound:
* Late 18th Century: "Quid" started being specifically applied to the British pound, likely due to the large gold coins in circulation at the time, known as "guineas." These coins were worth 21 shillings, equivalent to one pound and one shilling.
* Early 19th Century: The term "quid" became increasingly common slang for the pound, particularly in informal contexts.
3. "Quid" in Modern English:
* Today: "Quid" remains a common slang term for the British pound in the UK, often used in colloquial language. It's a casual way to refer to money and is frequently found in slang phrases like "a few quid" or "twenty quid."
Interesting Facts:
* The usage of "quid" for the pound is a testament to the enduring influence of Latin on English language.
* It demonstrates how a slang term can evolve over time and become associated with a specific concept.
* Though less common in formal language, "quid" remains a lively and recognized word for the pound, reflecting the informal spirit of British English.
Let me know if you'd like to explore other slang terms or linguistic phenomena!