Going Garrity

[Booldawg]

I've often heard people use this expression. It means going mad, eg 'I asked my boss for a day off work tomorrow and he went garrity'

Where does this word originate from?

[Papaleekie]

This expression emerged in the late 60's in south London. It was used mainly by mods and (later) skinheads to describe erratic behaviour. Since moving from London in the mid 70's I have never heard the expression. Its usage seems to have died off along with other expressions, eg calling a girl a 'sort'.

[boxtops]

papaleekie, do you think it was to do with Freddie Garrity (Freddie & the Dreamers) who bobbled about all over the stage while he was singing? I've never heard of it before.

[Papaleekie]

I doubt if Freddie Garrity was the inspiration. Not 'cool' enough! I think it was just something that emerged from a remark and spread through the local area amongst the young men of the era who, as has always been the case, adopted their own expressions. It was used mainly as an adjective, eg 'you garrity ****.', rather than as an adverb.

[boxtops]

Ah - just a thought - thanks for likely explanation.

[Eastender]

It does indeed relate to Freddie Garrity. In the 60s when Fredie & The Dreamers went over to america, the americans asked why he threw himself about when performing. He then shortly afterwards released a song called Do The Freddie, going completely wild even more, throwing his arms, legs and body around, this is how the boss would react if you asked for a day off lol. So along came the expression going Garrity. Watch the dance on You Tube. Well thats what i've always known. RIP Freddie.

[Booldawg]

Thanks for all the answers. I've also heard girls being referred to as 'sorts' !

[Yogamama29]

It comes from Garrett Lane workhouse in Wandsworth