Pop Goes the Weasel is a classic nursery rhyme loved by generations of children. This catchy tune has no official singer due to its folk origins.

Today, parents and teachers search for Pop Goes the Weasel lyrics to share with kids during music time. The simple words and bouncy rhythm make it easy to learn and fun to sing along.

About the Song

Pop Goes the Weasel started as a lively dance tune in England around 1852. The original version had only one line of lyrics: “pop goes the weasel”.

The tune reached America in 1853 when sheet music was published. People started adding their own words to the catchy melody. The British and American versions differ quite a bit today.

The true meaning remains a fun mystery. This simple tune became a favorite for children everywhere and still appears in Jack in the Box toys today.

Full Lyrics: Pop Goes the Weasel

Pop Goes the Weasel is a traditional nursery rhyme that has been passed down for generations, often sung to children for fun and early learning. Below are the full lyrics to this classic rhyme.

Intro

Round and round the cobbler’s bench
The monkey chased the weasel
The monkey thought it was all in fun
Pop goes the weasel

Verse 1

A penny for a spool of thread
A penny for a needle
That’s the way the money goes
Pop goes the weasel

Chorus

Round and round the mulberry bush
The monkey chased the weasel
The monkey stopped to pull up his socks
Pop goes the weasel

Verse 2

Half a pound of tuppenny rice
Half a pound of treacle
Mix it up and make it nice
Pop goes the weasel

Bridge

Ha ha ha ha ha hoo!
Pop goes the weasel

Verse 3 (Repeat)

Round and round the cobbler’s bench
The monkey chased the weasel
The monkey thought it was all in fun
Pop goes the weasel

Verse 4

A penny for a spool of thread
A penny for a needle
That’s the way the money goes
Pop goes the weasel

Outro

That’s the way the money goes
Pop goes the weasel

Songs Similar to Pop Goes the Weasel

If you enjoy the playful rhythm and classic nursery rhyme style of Pop Goes the Weasel, here are some similar songs that have been just as popular with children for generations.

• Twinkle Twinkle Little Star: This gentle lullaby shares a simple melody and repetitive structure that makes it easy for young children to learn.
• London Bridge Is Falling Down: Both songs date back to the 18th century and feature repetitive lyrics with playful singing games that kids can act out.
• Row Row Row Your Boat: Like Pop Goes the Weasel, this song is often sung in rounds with a cheerful rhythm that encourages group participation.
• Mary Had a Little Lamb: This traditional rhyme uses simple repetition and tells a story that helps children remember the words easily.
• This Old Man: This counting song features a bouncy rhythm and repetitive chorus that teaches numbers through music and play.

Artists Similar (Children’s Music Focus)

Several children’s music artists create nursery rhymes and playful songs similar in style and purpose to Pop Goes the Weasel, focusing on fun, repetition, and early learning.

• Mother Goose Club
  Genre: Children’s Music
  Top Work: Mother Goose Club Sings Nursery Rhymes
• Super Simple Songs
  Genre: Educational Children’s Music
  Top Work: Super Simple Songs Collection
• The Kiboomers
  Genre: Kids Music
  Top Work: Top 50 Kids Songs
• Little Baby Bum
  Genre: Nursery Rhymes, Educational
  Top Work: Little Baby Bum Nursery Rhymes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Hidden Meaning Behind Pop Goes the Weasel?

One theory says “pop” means pawning your coat (weasel) for money, while another suggests it refers to a weaving tool that popped.

What Are the Darkest Nursery Rhyme Lyrics?

Many nursery rhymes have dark origins, but Pop Goes the Weasel is mostly about spending money or weaving tools.

How Does the Nursery Rhyme Pop Goes the Weasel Go?

It starts “Half a pound of tuppenny rice, half a pound of treacle” in Britain, with different versions in America.

Which Killer Has Pop Goes the Weasel?

This refers to fictional characters in movies or books, not the actual nursery rhyme itself.