Inside information or the true facts about something, especially scandalous or secret information.
American slang combining 'low' (base, disreputable) with 'down,' possibly influenced by African American vernacular in early 20th century. It suggests information that comes 'from down low'—hidden or beneath the surface.
This word emerged in 1915 jazz culture when musicians needed slang for 'the real story.' It perfectly captures how language evolves in communities where inside knowledge is valuable—jazz players, gangsters, and reporters all adopted it.
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