Definition:
“Slang” refers to informal, often transient language that consists of words and phrases regarded as very informal, more common in speech than writing, and typically restricted to a particular context or group.
Etymology:
The term “slang” has uncertain origins, but it likely originated in the mid-18th century. It may derive from the Scandinavian word “slengja,” meaning “to sling the jaw” or “to talk in an insulting manner.” The use of “slang” to describe informal language became established in the 19th century.
Description:
Slang words and phrases are characterized by their informality and the speed with which they can change or fall out of use. Slang often emerges from subcultures, youth groups, and marginalized communities before potentially entering mainstream use.
Sociolinguistics is the study of language change, social identity, and cultural influences on language.
Examples of American Slang:
- Dope: Cool or awesome.
- Epic: Extremely good or impressive.
- Hype: Excitement or anticipation.
- Juice: Influence or power.
- Savage: Someone who does something bold or without regard for consequences.
- Sick: Very cool or impressive.
- Snatched: Looking good, typically used to describe someone’s appearance.
- Tea: Gossip or personal information.
- Yas: An enthusiastic way to say yes, often used to show support or excitement.
- Zonked: Extremely tired.
Examples of Australian Slang:
- Arvo: Afternoon.
- Mate: Friend or buddy.
- Barbie: Barbecue.
- Bogan: A person who is unsophisticated or uncultured.
- Chockers: Very full or crowded.
- Dunny: Toilet.
- Esky: A cooler or portable icebox.
- Fair dinkum: Genuine or accurate.
- Mozzie: Mosquito.
- Servo: Gas station or service station.
Examples of British Slang:
- Cheeky: Slightly rude or irreverent but often in an endearing or amusing way.
- Knackered: Very tired or exhausted.
- Gobsmacked: Extremely surprised or shocked.
- Bloke: A man.
- Quid: A pound (currency).
- Dodgy: Suspicious or unreliable.
- Mate: Friend.
- Chuffed: Very pleased or happy.
- Rubbish: Nonsense or something worthless; also used for trash.
- Bollocks: Nonsense; can also mean testicles (vulgar).
Examples of Canadian Slang:
- Eh: A tag question added to the end of a sentence for affirmation or agreement.
- Loonie: A one-dollar coin.
- Toque: A knitted winter hat.
- Chesterfield: A sofa or couch.
- Two-four: A case of 24 beers.
- Klick: A kilometer.
- Hoser: A good-natured term for a Canadian, sometimes used mockingly.
- Keener: Someone who is overly eager or enthusiastic.
- Timbit: A small doughnut hole from Tim Hortons.
- Hydro: Electricity or electric bill.
Examples of General Slang:
- Bae: A term of endearment for a significant other, short for “before anyone else.”
- Lit: Something that is exciting or excellent.
- Salty: Being bitter or resentful.
- Flex: To show off or boast.
- Ghost: To suddenly cut off all communication with someone.
- Throw shade: To subtly insult or criticize someone.
- GOAT: Greatest Of All Time.
- Slay: To do something exceptionally well.
- Turnt: Very excited or hyped up.
- Woke: Being aware of social and political issues, especially those related to justice and equality.