‘Baby Reindeer’: The ‘Scotch broth’ slang explained

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In the inaugural episode of Netflix’s sensation “Baby Reindeer,” a scene unfolds where Richard Gadd’s character, Donny Dunn, reluctantly accompanies Jessica Gunning’s Martha Scott to a coffee shop to celebrate her birthday. Amidst the peculiarities of Martha’s character, she makes a seemingly innocuous request for “Scotch broth.”

Now, to the uninitiated, Scotch broth might simply sound like a hearty British soup, and indeed, it is. Traditionally made with barley, an assortment of vegetables like cabbage and leeks, and typically featuring lamb, mutton, or beef, Scotch broth is a beloved culinary delight. However, in Martha’s unconventional lexicon, her request carries a different meaning altogether.

When Martha utters the words “Scotch broth,” she’s employing it as slang for semen. Given Donny’s Scottish heritage, Martha’s suggestive choice of words takes on a playful, albeit risqué, undertone, alluding to her desire for his bodily fluids.

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It’s worth noting that “Scotch broth” isn’t a widely recognized euphemism for semen in the United Kingdom. Rather, it’s a unique quirk of Martha’s character, adding to her eccentricity and unconventional nature. While Martha’s use of the term may raise eyebrows or elicit chuckles, it’s certainly not a common phrase in everyday conversation.

So, if you ever find yourself in the UK and happen to need to discuss such matters, it’s best to steer clear of culinary references like “Scotch broth” unless you’re prepared for some bewildered looks and raised eyebrows.