... where does the dosh come from ...

[svetlana14]

I'm curious about the contextual use of the term 'dosh' when discussing money, business, or politics with friends. Here's an example I came across on X: 'This questionnaire just popped through my letterbox, everyone in the Falkirk area is getting one, but where does the dosh come from, large scary building beside the Thames? Anyway, I've left him a suitable comment. Post or nail on the toilet door?' How often is 'dosh' used in British English? Would Americans understand it?

 

[Rover_KE]

I don't hear or see it much at all here in the UK these days. It sounds very dated and always had a note of juvenility about it - like the American 'dough'.

Our American friends will answer for themselves.

 

[emsr2d2]

I use it all the time! If I owe a friend money and I transfer it online, I'll text them "Just transferred the dosh". If I spot a payment from a friend in my online banking or PayPal, I'll message them "Ta for the dosh". Most of my friends use it too.

 

[SoothingDave]

No clue what it means. Never heard it used.

 

[Skrej]

No clue what it means. Never heard it used.

Same for me. I imagine few AmE speakers would understand it without having had extensive exposure to BrE.

 

[jutfrank]

I use it occasionally.

 

[PeterCW]

I agree that it is rather dated. I had a frustrating few minutes looking up the source. The best that I can find is simply "slang".

 

[Rover_KE]

No clue what it means. Never heard it used.

Americans call it 'dough' (money).

 

[emsr2d2]

I agree that it is rather dated. I had a frustrating few minutes looking up the source. The best that I can find is simply "slang".

If you scroll down to "United Kingdom" HERE, you'll see a potential explanation of the etymology. I was surprised to discover it's been in use only since 1953.