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Peelers Meaning - Streetionary

Peelers (noun / UK & Irish Slang)

(Also heard as: Peeler, Bobbies and peelers, Sir Robert’s men)

Definition:

Peelers is an old nickname for police officers, especially in Britain and Ireland. It is now mostly historical or humorous, though you still hear it, mostly in Ireland.

Where Peelers Comes From:

It comes from Sir Robert Peel, the Home Secretary who set up the Metropolitan Police in 1829, and who also gave us the nickname “bobby”, from Robert. The first officers were nicknamed “peelers” and “bobbies”.

How People Actually Use Peelers:

Today people use it in a nostalgic or comic way, in history, in songs and in Irish speech. “Bobby” became the dominant version in England, while “peeler” survived for a long time in Ireland.

Is Peelers Rude?

No. It is old-fashioned and mild, a historical nickname rather than an insult.

Examples in the Wild:

“The peelers will be here in a minute.”
Meaning: The police are on their way.
“In 1829, the first peelers walked the London streets.”
Meaning: The first police officers began patrolling.
“Mind yourself, there are peelers about.”
Meaning: Be careful, police are nearby.