- Ocker
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The term "ocker" is used both as a noun and adjective for an Australian who speaks and acts in an uncultured manner, using a broad Australian accent (or Strine).[1] The typical ocker is "usually found in a blue singlet and rubber thongs (foot wear) with a tinnie in his hand propping up a bar".[2]
Contents
Definition
Richard Neville defined ockerism as being "about conviviality: comradeship with a touch of good-hearted sexism".[2] It is mostly fairly neutral, even affectionate - although it can be used in a pejorative sense, especially by Australians who consider themselves cultured or enlightened.
History
Ocker was recorded from 1916 as a nickname for anyone called Oscar. The 1920s Australian comic strip Ginger Meggs contained a character called Oscar ('Ocker') Stevens. The term "ocker" for a stereotypically uncouth Australian came into use when a character of that name, played by Ron Frazer, appeared in the satirical television comedy series, The Mavis Bramston Show.[3]
Uses
Politicians, including former Prime Minister of Australia Kevin Rudd, will often take on "ocker" cultural elements such as slang to appeal to various audiences.[4]
References
- ^ Australian National Museum
- ^ a b Chipperfield, Mark (4 February 2001). "Ockers against wowsers stand up for their skimpies". Daily Telegraph. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/australiaandthepacific/australia/1321069/Ockers-against-wowsers-stand-up-for-their-skimpies.html. Retrieved 2009-06-13. Although Australians would say thongs, and not flip-flops.
- ^ Australian National Museum
- ^ "Rudd says ocker sound bites fair dinkum". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 11 June 2009. http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/06/11/2595358.htm. Retrieved 2009-06-13.
See also
Categories:- Australia stubs
- Australian slang
- Stereotypes
- Pejorative terms for people
- New Zealand slang
- Social class subcultures
- Australian culture
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