Numbers in Polari
Numbers in Polari follow a unique counting system rooted in a mixture of decimal and vigesimal elements, influenced by Italian and Parlyaree origins. Spoken primarily by LGBTQ+ communities, theatrical performers, and circus folk in the UK and Ireland from the 1950s to 1970s, Polari's numbers in Polari are both functional and coded. Its distinctive words for numbers, such as 'una' for one and 'kenza' for twelve, make it a fascinating linguistic relic. The language's counting system reflects its secretive nature, blending borrowed terms with original formations, making it a captivating subject for linguistic study and cultural preservation.
Number system
Polari's counting system is primarily decimal, with specific words for numbers 1 through 12. Numbers 1 to 5 are unique words: una (1), dooey (2), tray (3), quarter (4), chinker (5). Numbers 6 to 9 are formed by combining the word 'say' (6) with the unit: say oney (7), say dooey (8), say tray (9). The word for ten is 'daiture', derived from Italian 'dieci'. Eleven is 'long dedger', and twelve is 'kenza'. For example, 6 is 'say', 7 is 'say oney', 8 is 'say dooey', and 12 is 'kenza'. Compound numbers beyond 12 are not documented, but the pattern suggests combining base words with additive or multiplicative structures, possibly using the base-10 system with some vigesimal influences. For instance, 42 could be constructed as 'kenza' (12) times 3, or a compound form, but specific rules are not fully established.
Number list (12)
Counting rules
Counting from 1 to 5
Numbers 1 to 5 have unique words: una (1), dooey (2), tray (3), quarter (4), chinker (5). For example, 1 is 'una', 2 is 'dooey', 3 is 'tray', 4 is 'quarter', and 5 is 'chinker'.
Numbers 6 to 9
Numbers 6 to 9 are formed by combining 'say' with the units: 6 is 'say', 7 is 'say oney', 8 is 'say dooey', and 9 is 'say tray'. For example, 7 combines 'say' and 'oney' (6+1).
Number 10
The word for ten is 'daiture', derived from Italian 'dieci'. For example, 10 is 'daiture'.
Number 11
Eleven is 'long dedger', or 'lepta', following Parlyaree influence. For example, 11 is 'long dedger'.
Number 12
Twelve is 'kenza', a unique term borrowed from Italian influence. For example, 12 is 'kenza'.
Unique features
Polari uses unique words for numbers 1-5, such as 'quarter' for 4 and 'chinker' for 5, which are not directly derived from English but have Italian or Parlyaree roots.
Unlike standard English, where numbers are formed by combining words or using a base-10 system, Polari's 6-9 are formed by adding 'say' to the units, e.g., 'say oney' for 7.
A surprising pattern is that 12, 'kenza', is a distinct word borrowed from Italian, showing influence beyond simple derivation, and the number 10, 'daiture', also reflects Italian roots.
Large numbers beyond 12 are not well documented, but the pattern suggests possible compound formations or base-10 extensions, indicating a semi-vigesimal influence.
The language incorporates borrowed words like 'kenza' and 'daiture', reflecting its roots in Italian and Parlyaree, making its counting system a blend of cultural elements.
Cultural context
Polari was primarily spoken in the UK and Ireland among LGBTQ+ communities, theatrical performers, and circus personnel from the 1950s to 1970s. It served as a secret code to communicate discreetly in a time of social repression. Numbers in Polari often carried cultural significance, with some numbers considered lucky or taboo, though specific superstitions are not well documented. The language's unique counting words helped maintain privacy and fostered a sense of identity within marginalized groups. Today, Polari remains a symbol of cultural resilience and linguistic creativity, with its numbers reflecting a rich history of cross-cultural influence and covert communication.
Fun facts
Fact 1: The word for twelve, 'kenza', is borrowed from Italian, highlighting the influence of Italian on Polari's number system.
Fact 2: Unlike English, which uses a decimal system with regular patterns, Polari's 6-9 are formed by adding 'say' to the units, similar to a vigesimal influence.
Fact 3: The number 11, 'long dedger', is unique and does not follow the pattern of 1-10, indicating an independent development or borrowing.
Fact 4: Polari's use of 'quarter' for 4 reflects Italian influence ('quattro'), showing how cultural exchange shaped its vocabulary.
Fact 5: The language's limited documented numbers suggest it was primarily used for discreet counting rather than extensive numerical expression, emphasizing its secretive nature.
Frequently asked questions
How do you count to 10 in Polari?
1 - una, 2 - dooey, 3 - tray, 4 - quarter, 5 - chinker, 6 - say, 7 - say oney, 8 - say dooey, 9 - say tray, 10 - daiture.
What number base does Polari use?
Polari primarily uses a decimal base with some vigesimal influences, evidenced by the unique words for 12 ('kenza') and the formation of 6-9 by adding 'say' to units, indicating a mixed base system.
How do you say 42 in Polari?
Since specific rules for compound numbers are not fully documented, a logical construction might be 'kenza' (12) multiplied or combined with 3 ('tray') or 4 ('quarter'), but the exact form is unknown.
How do you say 100 in Polari?
There is no documented word for 100, but based on the pattern, it might involve repeating or combining existing words, or a new term borrowed from Italian or Parlyaree, which remains unknown.
How many people speak Polari?
The exact number of speakers is unknown, but it was primarily used by a small subculture in the UK and Ireland, especially among LGBTQ+ communities and performers during the mid-20th century.
Is Polari related to other languages?
Yes, Polari is an English-based cant with influences from Parlyaree and Italian, especially evident in its number words like 'kenza' and 'daiture'.
What makes Polari counting unique?
Its use of borrowed Italian words for numbers like 'kenza' for 12 and 'daiture' for 10, combined with the formation of 6-9 by adding 'say' to units, makes its counting system distinctive and culturally rich.