Bonzer. Arvo. Tucker. Sickie. Pash. Illywhacker. There are plenty of words to choose from to tell the story of Australia from iconic Australianisms like mateship, fair dinkum, and bogan to drop bears, budgie smugglers, and bin chickens. And while you aren’t likely to hear crikey, cobber, or wowser walking down the street, you will hear no worries, mate, and yeah nah. Words underpin myths and stereotypes of Australian identity; they have also obscured harsh realities and inequalities. Together, these words shine a spotlight on our culture, past and present. Historian and Director of the Australian National Dictionary Centre Amanda Laugesen brings us an innovative linguistic history of Australia.
