My Backyard.

[Neville Briggs]

Apparently what I would call a singlet. Why " wifebeater"? I have no idea.

[Bob Pacey]

Cause they are always on ya back ?


Bob

[Heather]

I've never heard that one before - I can sense another language developing north of the border.

[Maureen K Clifford]

Our old blue singlet, much loved by shearers - always known as a Jackie Howe until fairly recently is now called a 'wifebeater' so named by American rednecks and of course if it is American it must be embraced wholeheartedly by our bogans and ferals over here - right.

[keats]

Unfortunate name I agree. I did not realise it was originally an American term. I've heard it used for so many years over here. By the feral and bogan brigade as Maureen says. I think it took reference from the oft seen apparel of domestic violence arrestees and a term I dislike but unfortunately chose to use. If a moderator would like to change it to a Bonds singlet or Jackie Howe then I would appreciate it.

Neil

[Heather]

Leave it Neil. You meant no offense, I've learnt something new and the ensuing discussion wouldn't make any sense without it.

[keats]

Thanks Heather. I suppose now some know what the reference is if they hear it in our lingo. Pretty tasteless term, but one that has unfortunately crept into our lingo. Glad I have been picked up on it though.

Thanks again

Neil

[Maureen K Clifford]

It is a shame that our younger generation seem so hell bent on adopting the American slang for everything - the term'Jackie Howe' had a real Aussie connection - something that was in its way a source of pride but the term 'wifebeater' conjures up an entirely different aspect. Having said that though do blokes still wear blue singlets - they used to be as I recall fairly common on building sites and other outdoor occupations but I don't recall seeing them for years - my ex used to wear them but never saw any of our shearers wearing them - maybe like Chesty Bond its another disappearing icon.

[keats]

Still plenty around, Maureen. Especially amongst the Tradies, and that is not to categorise them into the Bogan crew, because they certainly are not. And I don't think the term can be attributed to our younger generation. I remember hearing the term constantly about thirty years ago, amongst adults. We can blame the younger generation for some things, but for other terms, we need to look at the chickens from the 60s/70s
coming home to roost.

Neil

[Heather]

I wonder what the attraction is? Air conditioned arm pits?