Figgins
A figgin is a small short-crust pasty containing raisins, according to the Dictionary of Eye-Watering Words. Figgins seem to be a popular coffee-time snack in Ankh-Morpork, but the word is also used as a euphemism for something by which you would not want to be hung. It would seem that there is a history of baked goods having an... intimate... double meaning (See Twopenny Upright)
Figgin as a euphemism
- The oath of allegiance of the Elucidated Brethren of the Ebon Night, contained a description of the horrors that would befall a traitor, ending: "...and his figgin placed upon a spike."
- It is said that Mad Lord Snapcase was, upon his overthrow, strung up by his figgin. This indicates that either language has changed a lot or that there is some horrible aspect to being suspended next to a teacake.
Appearances
- Guards! Guards!
- Interesting Times
- Feet of Clay
- Nanny Ogg's Cookbook (Contrary to the above definition, the recipe given in this book contains no raisins.)
On Roundworld
In Lancashire and the Manchester area, a "figgin" is perhaps better known as a "Chorley Cake", and very nice it is too.