Jackspeak: A Guide to British Naval Slang and Usage

Absolutely sheer, total, and utterly utter delight for all who have served, serve, will or may serve in the Royal Navy, and for all with merely an interest in it's affairs going beyond knowing who Nelson was. Plus a significant contribution to the unique tradition of Jack and his inimitable ability to 'ave 'is tickler and see the bloody twelve roll on. Captain Jolly and Tugg bring back the days that seem to disappear slowly under the pressure of awkward modernity, fiscal cuts, and political correctness. For this book, CALL BOTH WATCHES OF HANDS!

The armed services of every nation have their own slang and usage that grows up in separation of their parent societies. Often, it derives from historical usage and expeience. Thus, we have Surgeon Captain Rick Jolly (RN, ret)'s attempt to provide a one-volume reference for the naval veteran, new sailor, buff, and the morbidly curious alike. Reptinted three times and updated once in 1999, the book serves as a collection of snapshots of all things British navy going back to at least the Second World War. Highly recommended as a standard reference.

Awesome book for British Naval Slang virgins. Full of information and illustrations. Love that you can also reference other words/phrases easily.

Great book great service

On time and in great condition -- just as it was described.

See my previous report on this outstanding book.

Pssed myself laughing and remembering. Would give it 5 stars but that wouldnt leave any room for when he brings out an Australian Adendum.

This is really good book. I would say the pearl.

Rick Jolly was our surgeon in the Falklands hence why the field hospital was in red and green , he perform so many op' s on those wounded, he was a legend. He gave as much attention to a wounded Argie as he did with his own. Sadly Rick has crossed the bar and sailed on to a new port. Rick you were the world very best Surgeon. So in this book is the lingo of those in the greatest Navy in this world, my wife now speaks to me like I have done for ages, and if things go wrong shouts shave off, recommend this Naval lingo bible to all.

Jackspeak is a very funny and fairly up-to-date guide on all the strange lingo that the RN uses, it's very helpful when one of my 'matlow' friends uses an unfamiliar term in conversation. The illustrations are a particular favourite of mine and overall this makes a great gift for people who are in or know people in 'the mob'!

Really good, bought for present and recipient was delighted. Good book to dip into. Also purchased the other small book not enough room to swing a cat. They really complimented each other. Did so after reading other recommendations.

My late husband would have loved this book after serving in the Royal Navy. I can now see where his turn of phrases came from! A bit salty at times, but I think it must be once a sailor, always a sailor. Loved the kindle book so much, I bought the hardback version today.

Takes you back to a time when the language that was used was when the world was a different place really interesting and fascinating to learn where certain sayings and phrases came from and came into usage, great book

A great gift for an ex sailor. I have been hearing jack speak for years from my husband. I now get to hear a huge range!!!

it not only gave us a lot of pleasure and laughter a great book to have and read to understand The Royal Navy language. Highly recommended.

Bought for son who is in navy. Arrived in excellent condition. Would recommend

He loved it ; great book in good order well worth the money thank you

A fantastic reminder of life in the Royal Navy - a must read.

Excellent. Can’tfaultthis. Lots of happymemories of the Andrew.

Bought as a present, but received with a smile.

Perfect buy! Especially for someone just coming out of training, the only downside is that once you give the book to your partner you then have to sit through the explanations of each phrase in the book 😂

Great update. Thoroughly enjoy it. Brought back lots of memories. I guess some of the hairy fairies were a bit stuck with the blue water navy or the s/m lingo. I suppose a lot depends on your age and when you served but all sailors should be issued with it to keep the tradition and jack speak living.

Brilliant book. I didn't realise that so many phrases used in the police and army came from the Andrew and Booties.