Joe Soap

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"Joe Soap" is British rhyming slang [1] denoting a foolish stooge or scapegoat, Joe being an ordinary person, with Soap as a rhyme for dope.

Contents

History

The phrase appeared in a 1943 book of military slang by John Hunt and Alan Pringle: "Joe Soap, the 'dumb' or not so intelligent members of the forces. The men who are 'over-willing' and therefore the usual 'stooges'." The name Joe Soap appears in the WW1 song "Joe Soap's Army", sung to the tune of "Onward, Christian Soldiers". ("Forward, Joe Soap's army, marching without fear, with our brave commander, safely in the rear.")

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References

  1. Crozier, Justin. "Shame About the Boat Race: A Guide to Rhyming Slang". HarperCollins Publishers. Archived from the original on 2012-07-21.
  2. Marsh / Oakey / Ware. "Blind Youth". Reproduction. Virgin Music (Publishers) Ltd. Archived from the original on 2009-11-02.
  3. Holland, Steve (2002). The Fleetway Companion. Rotherham: CJ & Publication.