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Yank  An American.

General. From 1778 (OED). Attested in numerous sources.

This was an abbreviated form of ‘Yankee’. Used initially within the US to refer to an inhabitant of New England, it was picked up and used widely of any inhabitant of the US.

 

Y Emma  Y.M.C.A.

World War I. Attested in B&P, F&G, and Partridge.

This was based on signalman’s pronunciation. See Ack. The YMCA provided vital services for the soldiers, setting up huts for the provision of items like tea and biscuits, and providing entertainment and recreation.

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