Quote:
Originally Posted by RodKnock
Tomcat is probably spot on with his assessment, since most of us Americans couldn't find Australia on a map and, if we could, likely would point to New Zealand.  |
Seppo or Septic or Septic Tank is Aussie slang for an American. Not sure how long it's been in use but I'd guess it started in the 50's or 60's or possible even during WW2.
It's derived from Rhyming slang (Septic Tank = Yank).
It's funny, in Aussies call their friends all sorts of derogatory names and it's a term of endearment. However some one you really don't like might just be referred to as "That bloke is a bit of a bastard".
I work for a US company here in Australia and it's funny watching Aussie sales guys in meetings. The language is usually pretty colorful from both sides of the table and that seems to be just the way many aussies talk. We sometimes get the odd US expat visiting and it takes them aback at first. Quite funny to watch.
Cheers