The Origin and Evolution of Costermonger: From Market Seller to Urban Legend
In the rich tapestry of British colloquialisms, the term costermonger stands out as a fascinating example of cultural evolution. This term refers to a specific type of market seller, known for their practice of selling goods, particularly fruit and vegetables, from wheeled carts. Over time, the term has undergone a transformation, not only in its meaning but also in its usage within the broader context of British life.
Etymology and Early Usage
In the 1510s, the term coster was derived from the word costard, a French term that referred to a type of apple. The suffix monger was added to denote a seller, much like how we use ironmonger for someone who sells iron goods and fishmonger for a fish seller. However, the usage of costermonger evolved beyond just the sale of costards. It began to encompass general goods and eventually the term became synonymous with a person who ran a general store, where they could source a wide range of items.
The Costermonger as a Market Seller
A costermonger was a key figure in the urban markets of England, specifically in London and other market towns. They typically sold fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, along with fish and meat. These sellers were known for their mobile stalls, often pushed around by hand, which allowed them to be highly mobile and reach various parts of the city. Over time, the term shifted to refer not just to the physical selling but also to someone running a general store where, if they lacked a particular item, it was said that they could procure it.
The Decline in Usage and Modern Relevance
Today, the term costermonger is not commonly used in its original sense. In modern times, you are less likely to encounter a handcart in a market setting, and the suffix monger is more often used to describe specialized commodity sellers. There are some exceptions where the term is used figuratively, such as the modern “fearmonger,” a person who spreads fear for personal gain.
Related Usage and Context
The term costermonger also appears in the title of a book by George Gissing, titled The?Cistermomeg?, which functions as a goldmine for understanding the cultural and social underpinnings of this term. Modern contexts include its use in literature and historical accounts, as well as in the urban fabric of cities, where remnants of this tradition may still be found.
Conclusion
The transformation of the term costermonger from a specific market seller to a broader term for a general trader reflects the dynamic nature of cultural and linguistic evolution. While it may no longer be a common term in everyday usage, understanding its origins and evolution helps us appreciate the rich historical and cultural context of British commerce.
For those interested in further research, exploring literature, historical accounts, and urban studies can provide deeper insights into the role of costermongers in society and the changes they underwent over time.