The Dictionary of Crime Terms is the definitive guide to the language of the criminal world, explaining the words and phrases that crooks and felons use to describe themselves, their associates, their victims, and crimes. Some of the terms are in general use by the public, while others are exclusive to specific criminal settings and perpetrators.

Entertaining, comprehensive, and revealing, The Dictionary of Crime Terms features definitions and explanations for nearly 900 terms from crime lingo and Mafia jargon. The definitive guide to the language of the underworld, this dictionary is filled with the words that wiseguys and other criminals use to describe themselves, their associates, their crimes, and their actions. Some of the terms are widely used outside of mobspeak, while others are used almost exclusively in the context of criminal and Mafia activity.
Without glorifying the criminality of American organized crime, The Dictionary of Crime Terms defines the language spoken by real-life criminals. Through the words they use, the book provides fascinating insight into the cold, vicious mentality that governs the criminal underworld. Examined here in great detail is the richly flavored and idiomatic style of speech that is linked to a life of crime based on treachery, violence, survival, and acquiring wealth at any cost. This unique reference is an indispensable addition to any library or home collection where organized crime and criminology are favorite topics.
Nearly 900 phrases and terms are covered, including:
Ace of diamondsBreak a legChop shopFriend of ours and friend of mineIce pick specialKiss of deathNo man's landOmertaSell down the riverAnd many others.