Jan 14
Polari Dictionary (pt.2)
The origins of Polari are hard to pinpoint, although an earlier 'dialect' known as Parlyaree was used in the 19th century. Parlyaree arose between travelling entertainers (circus and fairground performers, actors, etc.) and other related stigmatised groups like buskers and prostitutes. These groups of people were outcast from the general public due to their taboo nature and therefore Parlyaree was born in order for these people to converse safely and secretly.
Source: Fantabulosa - a Dictionary of Polari and Gay Slang (2004) by Paul Baker