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QUICK FACT: Origin of the word soccer

Did you know that the word “soccer” came from an abbreviation of the word “association football”? Back in the 1880s, students of Oxford University used to abbreviate words by adding “er” to the end. For example, breakfast was referred to as “brekkers” and rugby was referred to as “ruggers”. Charles Wreford Brown, once a student at Oxford University, is usually credited for inventing the word “soccer” but there is a lack of supporting evidence.

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About the Author

Name: Joshua
Email: sidelinesoccer@gmail.com
Website: http://www.sidelinesoccer.com
Josh is the owner and captain of Sideline Soccer. He's been playing soccer since he was in diapers! Josh's jersey number is 7 and his favorite teams are Manchester United and Benfica.

2 Commentators

The word soccer is not only used in the USA. It’s use is more common in countries that also play football, like American football. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore refer to the game as soccer. The word soccer is also used in England at times but football is more commonly used.

On January 6, 2009 Joshua said

funny that a word spawned in the country would grow to be so hated by it.

On January 6, 2009 Jake said

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