The quote discusses how dialect words from various regions began to be recorded during the late 19th century. One example provided is "gobslotch," a term used in Yorkshire, which illustrates the connection between excessive eating and foolishness that was starting to emerge in regional language at that time.
This observation reveals broader cultural attitudes about food consumption and intelligence prevalent in certain communities. The use of such terms suggests that people were expressing their views on overindulgence through humor or ridicule, often associating gluttony with a lack of mental acuity. This trend reflects the societal tendency to mock behaviors seen as undesirable or out of place, highlighting how language evolves to encapsulate and sometimes perpetuate social norms and stereotypes.
The quote is from Susie Dent, known for her extensive work in linguistics and lexicography. She has been featured on popular television shows like "Countdown" and is well-regarded for her insights into the English language and its evolution over time. Her expertise allows her to provide deep analyses of how regional dialects reflect broader cultural attitudes and societal values.
