British police officers are often called "bobbies". Why?

"Bobby", a name often given to men/boys called "Robert", refers to Sir Robert Peel. Peel was Home Secretary 1822–1827. He reformed and liberalised the criminal law and created the modern police force, leading to a new type of officer known in tribute to him as "bobbies".

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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38 Comments

Jeff Carter

Derrick Johnston, I absolutely agree. I review questions myself and I’m often amazed at the pickiness of certain other reviewers (I could name them but I won’t!). I’ve not submitted any questions myself for a while for similar reasons to yours.

Iain Mitchell

They were also nicknamed peelers after their founder

Bob Watt

The term was (and still is!) used for Railway Signalmen in some parts of Britain.

Chrissie

Bob Whitehead, oh Bob, you were a bobby! Thanks - for your service and for feeding the joke.

deborahpmercer

At one point they were also nicknamed "Peelers" for the same reason, though some may have thought it meant they kept their eyes peeled!

silrem

Derrick Johnston, writing 1 instead of one seems perfectly reasonable especially to save space & I find it hard to grasp that was why it was rejected. I like informative answers and found this one terribly skimpy. For instance, I was curious if this Peel was related to the Peel who was Prime Minister of England. It is shameful that the author didn't mention that Home Minister was also twice Prime Minister. That is significant info on Sir Robert Peel. I often like what is written but on review may suggest something I think might make it stronger. It is not necessarily a rejection of the author. Please keep offering questions.

Christopher J Voce

Also called ‘the Bill’ after the bill of parliament that approved the police force, or as it was a long time ago now ‘the old bill’. The Sweeney is rhyming slang for the Flying Squad - Sweeney Todd. They’re like the SAS of the Metropolitan Police ( sort of ).