Expert: Michael - 2/2/2008

Question
why are welsh people called taff?

Answer
Hello Dan,

The pejorative term 'taff', or 'taffy' comes from a misunderstanding of the welsh pronunciation of the name 'David' - a common name in Wales, not least because St David is the patron sent of the nation (celebrated on 1st March)

In Welsh, the name is spelt "Dafydd" and is pronounced in a manor something like 'daffeth'. This was corrupted by English-speakers until it eventually became 'Taffy', abbreviated to 'Taff'.

I hope this helps.

Michael
http://www.askoxford.com/concise_oed/taffy?view=uk