Lemon Meringue Rhyming Slang

By Michael Landy (2024)

Have you noticed the collection of Cockney rhyming slang phrases on day-glow signs that have popped up in the East Bank landscape?

They are all part of a new installation by local artist Michael Landy, reminding us of this special language rooted in the East End’s rich and creative past. He also joined up withspoken word artist Jonzi D to create some brand new rhyming slang phrases tapping into more recent diasporic influences.

Curious about the stories behind each phrase? Click the “Explore more” button to follow our Lemon Meringue Trail section on the next page…

The artwork was commissioned as part of the Waterfront Art within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park curated by Louise Trodden on behalf of London Legacy Development Corporation.  It is associated with the cultural and education organisations of East Bank.

Cockney Rhyming Slang Translation

Adam & Eve for Believe

April Showers for Flowers

Apples & Pears for Stairs

Ball of Chalk for Walk

Bobby Moore for Score

Butcher’s Hook for Look

Chew the Fat for Chat

Chicken Jalfrezi for Crazy

Clock em n Pree for See

Cream Crackered for Knackered (tired)

Custard Jelly for Telly or Television

Dog & Bone for Phone

Drum & Bass for Place

Duck & Dive for Skive

Horse n Carriage for UK Garage (or Marriage)

Jollof Rice for Nice

Joan of Arc for Park

Kick & Prance for Dance

Pete Tong for Wrong

Ronnie & Reggie for Veggie

Rosie Lee for Tea

S Club 7 for Heaven

Scooby Doo for Clue