So, the answer has just come in from the blog. I quote our blog reader:
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"As far as I am aware there is no insult in the word ‘grunge.’ I had only come across it with reference to fashion a few years back when ‘grunge’ was all the rage meaning youngsters were wearing shredded jeans, and holey jumpers - in other words dressing down.
"We [English people] tend to use the word ‘grotty’ if we want to describe somthing or somewhere which is below standard, tatty or dirty. I wonder if ‘grotty’ comes from ‘grotto’ or ‘cave.’? I am sure the younger generation probably has a different word for grotty now which is probably only used by the older generation.
"I think grunge clothing would be ideal for exploring caves!"
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Great! Thanks for that response!
Father George