Would you like to go to the bod or a bop? Steeped in tradition, over the years, numerous phrases and words have originated that you would probably not hear anywhere else. Even a seasoned Oxonian would have trouble figuring out what they mean. These are some terms that you might come across.
I. Quad
Short for quadrangle. A rectangular courtyard around which you will find college buildings. Most have a nice green lawn in the middle.
II. Bod
Short for the Bodleian library, Oxford principal library and one of the oldest in the world.
III. Porter
Generic term for a college guard. Definitely not for carrying luggage. Usually found in the porter's lodge at the entrance to a college and the first point of contact when you are at a college.
V. Subfusc
The official dress of an Oxford student: dark suit, white bow tie, gown and mortar-board worn for matriculations, exams and degree ceremonies.
You may also come across:
- The High: High Street
- The Broad: Broad Street
- High Table: The elevated part of the dining table where fellows of a college dine
- Sent down: expelled; come up: arrive as a student; go down: leave as a student
- Michaelmas, Hilary and Trinity: The three terms of the Oxford academic year
