Furphy: A rumour. An Australian term, suggested by the name of the maker of the sanitary carts at Broadwater Camp, Melbourne, seen going about everywhere when, at the outset of war, all sorts of rumours were current as to the destination of the Australians. The camp rumours came to be called "Furphies," and the word was carried among the men to Egypt and spread thence through the forces.[1]
References / notes
- ↑ Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.100.
Glossary of words and phrases
The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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