Learn English – Are Pounds Sterling referred to as squid (in addition to quid)

british-englishslang

Commonly pounds are called quid,

but I've come across references to pounds as

squid

Is that a typo or actually a common usage?

Example from Football forums:

It is believed they have offered them
over a million squid to take on the
role and gave them till this morning
to give them there decision. Allardyce
or O'niell ???.

Best Answer

This is quite common in the North East, but only among the common (or, let's say the 'down-to-earth', or street-smart, whichever you prefer) - particularly the youth. There are others, too, such as:

  • bin lid
  • nicker
  • cherry

Money-slang also extends to multiples:

  • score = £20
  • pony = £25
  • ton = £100
  • monkey = £500

And so on; I'd put my money on what you saw being intentional, rather than accidental.