A “flash girl” is a term historically used to refer to a prostitute. This definition comes from its use in certain songs and texts from the 1800s where “flash girl” specifically denotes a woman engaged in prostitution.
The word “flash” itself originates from British cant, a slang used by the criminal underworld during the 19th century. It broadly describes members of the criminal fraternity or those living on the fringes of society.
In this context, a “flash girl” is closely linked to the term “flash man.” A “flash man” typically refers to a pimp or a “favourite or fancy-man.” These men are dissolute characters dependent on women they exploit, often protecting them during night-time activities.
This relationship between the flash girl and flash man is noted in sources like J.H. Vaux’s A Vocabulary of the Flash Language published in 1819. The flash man ensures protection for the women during their nocturnal rounds, including intervening in altercations or shielding them if they are caught robbing others.
- The flash girl is a prostitute, often operating under the oversight or control of a flash man.
- “Flash” was criminal slang in 19th-century Britain, linked with criminal and street life.
- The flash man acts as protector and pimp, living on the earnings of these women.
- This terminology is historically documented in early 1800s slang dictionaries and songs.
Understanding the term “flash girl” requires awareness of its historical social and linguistic context. The terminology reflects the realities of street life and the underworld in 19th-century Britain, illustrating the roles within that subculture.
- “Flash girl” = prostitute in 19th-century British cant.
- “Flash” = slang for criminal or underworld figure.
- “Flash man” = pimp or protector of flash girls.
- Historical source: J.H. Vaux’s 1819 vocabulary of flash language.
