The slang encycolopedia

what does essayed mean in slang

British slang glossary

Welcome to our comprehensive British slang glossary! 🚋🏘💈

Britain isn’t just about the Queen’s Guard and afternoon tea; it’s brimming with a rich tapestry of slang and expressions that might leave even the most adept linguists scratching their heads. Here, we’ve handpicked the most quintessential UK slang terms, complete with their meanings, origins, and illustrative examples. Whether you’re a Brit at heart or a fascinated tourist, this guide will be your ticket to mastering the lingo of the land. Dive in and speak like a true Brit! Without further ado, here’s our comprehensive list of British slang:

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  • Meaning : Short for “aggravation”. It’s used to describe someone being aggressive or causing trouble.
  • Origin : Abbreviation of “aggravation”.
  • Usage : “There was a bit of aggro at the pub last night.”

All mouth and no trousers

  • Meaning : Someone who talks a lot but doesn’t follow through with their words.
  • Origin : Describes someone who’s all talk without substance, as if they forgot to put their trousers on.
  • Usage : “He claims he’ll beat the record, but he’s all mouth and no trousers.”
  • Meaning : A person obsessively interested in a thing, especially something niche. Can be somewhat derogatory.
  • Origin : Refers to the anorak jackets that stereotypical hobbyists might wear.
  • Usage : “He’s such an anorak about train schedules.”
  • Meaning : Refers to the buttocks. Can also mean a person or way of behavior.
  • Origin : Old English “ærs”.
  • Usage : “Get off your arse and do some work!”

Arse over tit

  • Meaning : Falling over, usually in a clumsy manner.
  • Origin : A colorful way to describe someone tumbling down.
  • Usage : “I went arse over tit on that icy patch.”

Anti-clockwise

  • Meaning : Opposite direction to the way clock hands move, known as “counter-clockwise” in many other places.
  • Origin : Descriptive.
  • Usage : “Turn the knob anti-clockwise.”

Apples and pears

  • Meaning : Cockney rhyming slang for stairs.
  • Origin : Classic East London rhyming slang.
  • Usage : “I’m heading up the apples and pears to bed.”
  • Meaning : A disagreement or heated argument.
  • Origin : Possibly from “argue”, repeated for emphasis.
  • Usage : “There was a bit of argy-bargy after the match.”

Arm and a leg

  • Meaning : Very expensive.
  • Origin : The idea that something is so costly it’s like giving up a vital part of oneself.
  • Usage : “This handbag cost an arm and a leg!”
  • Meaning : Accident and Emergency department in a hospital, similar to the ER (Emergency Room) in the U.S.
  • Origin : Abbreviation.
  • Usage : “He hurt his hand and had to go to A&E.”

At loggerheads

  • Meaning : In disagreement or dispute with someone.
  • Origin : Possibly from the use of loggerhead tools that were heated and used in certain industries.
  • Usage : “The two families have been at loggerheads for years.”

Away with the fairies

  • Meaning : Daydreaming or not paying attention.
  • Origin : Refers to the whimsical nature of fairies and being in a dreamlike state.
  • Usage : “Sorry, I missed that. I was away with the fairies.”

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  • Meaning : Tobacco.
  • Origin : Abbreviation of “tobacco”.
  • Usage : “Got any baccy for this pipe?”
  • Meaning : Calling dibs on something.
  • Origin : Possibly from children’s language.
  • Usage : “Bagsy the front seat!”
  • Meaning : Crazy or mad.
  • Origin : From “barm”, meaning fermenting froth in beer-making, implying agitation.
  • Usage : “You must be barmy to jump into that cold water!”

Bee’s knees

  • Meaning : Something excellent or of high quality.
  • Origin : 1920s American slang. The exact origins are unclear.
  • Usage : “This new song is the bee’s knees!”
  • Meaning : A derogatory term, calling someone an idiot.
  • Origin : Refers to the glans of the penis.
  • Usage : “Stop being such a bellend!”
  • Meaning : A drinking spree.
  • Origin : To bend one’s elbow while drinking.
  • Usage : “He’s been on a bender since Friday.”
  • Meaning : Custom or tailor-made.
  • Origin : Originated from when material for a suit was “spoken for” by a tailor.
  • Usage : “She ordered a bespoke gown for the ball.”
  • Meaning : An exclamation of surprise.
  • Origin : Likely a corruption of “Blind me!” or “God blind me!”
  • Usage : “Blimey, that was a close call!”
  • Meaning : Having a narrow or limited outlook.
  • Origin : Refers to the blinkers used on horses to keep them seeing straight ahead only.
  • Usage : “You have such a blinkered view of the situation.”
  • Meaning : To do a clumsy or inelegant job of fixing something.
  • Origin : Possibly from “botch”.
  • Usage : “I tried to fix the sink but I made a bodge of it.”
  • Meaning : Toilet paper.
  • Origin : “Bog” is slang for toilet.
  • Usage : “We’re out of bog roll!”
  • Meaning : Nonsense or something incorrect; also refers to testicles.
  • Origin : Old English “beallucas” meaning testicles.
  • Usage : “What he’s saying is absolute bollocks!”
  • Meaning : The trunk of a car.
  • Origin : Descriptive of the storage space at the back of a vehicle.
  • Usage : “Put the groceries in the boot.”

Brassed off

  • Meaning : Annoyed or fed up.
  • Origin : Possibly from the use of brass instruments which can be loud and annoying.
  • Usage : “I’m really brassed off with this situation.”
  • Meaning : Breakfast.
  • Usage : “What are we having for brekkie?”
  • Meaning : Short for “brilliant”.
  • Usage : “That’s a brill idea!”
  • Meaning : To cry or to be in tears.
  • Origin : Possibly from the notion of eyes welling up with tears.
  • Usage : “The film was so sad, it made me bubble.”
  • Meaning : A term of affection or frustration; also used to denote something gone wrong.
  • Origin : From Middle French “bougre” for heretic, referring to Bulgarians of the Bogomil sect.
  • Usage : “The car won’t start! Oh, bugger.”
  • Meaning : Unwanted or excessive paperwork or documentation.
  • Origin : Short for “bum fodder”, implying its only use would be as toilet paper.
  • Usage : “I’ve got a drawer full of bumf from the bank.”

Butcher’s

  • Meaning : A look. Short for “butcher’s hook” in Cockney rhyming slang.
  • Origin : Cockney rhyming slang.
  • Usage : “Give me a butcher’s at that!”
  • Meaning : A derogatory term used to describe someone perceived as lower-class and displaying brash behavior, cheap clothing.
  • Origin : Uncertain. Some theories suggest it’s from “Chatham Average” or Romany word “chavi” (meaning child).
  • Usage : “Look at those chavs hanging out at the mall.”
  • Meaning : Slightly disrespectful, but in a playful or appealing way.
  • Origin : Referring to someone’s boldness or audacity, as if “showing cheek”.
  • Usage : “He took a cheeky bite of my sandwich!”
  • Meaning : A chat or conversation.
  • Origin : From the motion of the chin during talking.
  • Usage : “We had a good chinwag over coffee.”
  • Meaning : Pleased or satisfied.
  • Origin : Possibly from the sound of steam being released, like a steam engine puffing.
  • Usage : “I’m absolutely chuffed with my new bike.”
  • Meaning : A mistake or blunder.
  • Origin : Refers to the sound of something being dropped.
  • Usage : “He dropped a real clanger in the meeting.”
  • Meaning : Clothes.
  • Origin : Possibly from the word “clob”, meaning a lump or piece.
  • Usage : “Nice clobber! Going out tonight?”
  • Meaning : A mistake or something done wrong.
  • Origin : Naval term referring to a mishap with rigging.
  • Usage : “The whole event was a massive cock-up.”
  • Meaning : Nonsense.
  • Origin : Rumored (though likely apocryphal) to be from Hiram Codd, an inventor of a bottle for fizzy drinks, and “wallop”, a slang term for beer.
  • Usage : “What he said is absolute codswallop.”
  • Meaning : An exclamation of surprise or admiration.
  • Origin : Possibly a contraction of “God”.
  • Usage : “Cor, look at that!”
  • Meaning : Potato chips.
  • Origin : Descriptive, from the crisp nature of the snack.
  • Usage : “Can you grab a bag of crisps from the shop?”
  • Meaning : A cup of tea.
  • Usage : “Fancy a cuppa?”
  • Meaning : Refers to the end or death.
  • Origin : Refers to the closing of curtains at the end of a performance.
  • Usage : “If he finds out, it’s curtains for you.”
  • Meaning : To talk or mutter in a low or indistinct manner; grumble.
  • Origin : Possible alteration of “chatter”.
  • Usage : “He continued to chunter about the decision.”
  • Meaning : A man or boy.
  • Origin : Shortened form of “chapman”, an old term for a trader or merchant.
  • Usage : “He’s a nice chap, isn’t he?”
  • Meaning : Excellent or very good.
  • Origin : Possibly related to “crack” as something outstanding (from Irish “craic”, meaning fun).
  • Usage : “That’s a cracking idea!”
  • Meaning : Silly or foolish.
  • Origin : From Old English “gedæfte” meaning gentle or meek.
  • Usage : “Don’t be daft, that’s not how it works.”
  • Meaning : A quick look or glance.
  • Origin : From the Hindi word “dekho” meaning look.
  • Usage : “Give me a dekko at what you’re working on.”
  • Meaning : Not feeling well or something malfunctioning.
  • Origin : Uncertain. Possibly rhyming slang (Dicky Bird = word) or related to Richard III, who had a crooked back.
  • Usage : “The radio’s gone a bit dicky.”
  • Meaning : Attractive or good-looking, usually referring to a man.
  • Origin : “Dish” in the sense of something desirable on a plate.
  • Usage : “That new actor is quite dishy.”
  • Meaning : Suspicious, unreliable, or of questionable quality.
  • Origin : Possibly related to the verb “dodge”.
  • Usage : “I wouldn’t buy anything from that dodgy shop.”

Dog’s Bollocks

  • Meaning : Something that’s the very best in its category.
  • Origin : Likely from “the cat’s whiskers” (meaning the same thing) with a more humorous twist.
  • Usage : “This new game is the dog’s bollocks!”
  • Meaning : Money.
  • Origin : Unknown. Possibly related to the word “dash”, which once meant to sprinkle or to pay out.
  • Usage : “How much dosh did you spend on that?”
  • Meaning : A board game known as checkers in the U.S.
  • Origin : From the Old English “drag-“, meaning to pull or to draw.
  • Usage : “Fancy a game of draughts?”

Drop a clanger

  • Meaning : Make a mistake or say something embarrassing.
  • Origin : Related to “clanger”, which refers to a mistake.
  • Usage : “He really dropped a clanger during the presentation.”
  • Meaning : Something that’s broken or not working properly; also means a beating as in “to give someone a duffing up”.
  • Origin : Possibly from the word “duff up”, meaning to mistreat or manhandle.
  • Usage : “This old car’s duff.”
  • Meaning : A quilted blanket filled with down or feathers, known as a “comforter” in the U.S.
  • Origin : From the French word “duvet”, meaning down (as of a bird).
  • Usage : “It’s cold tonight; put another duvet on the bed.”
  • Meaning : Go away or leave.
  • Origin : Uncertain. Colloquial and informal.
  • Usage : “I’ve had enough of this, I’m going to do one.”
  • Meaning : A cunning trick or shifty deception.
  • Origin : From the action of dodging or avoiding something.
  • Usage : “That was a smart dodge to avoid the traffic.”
  • Meaning : To eavesdrop on someone’s conversation.
  • Origin : Refers to the insect ‘earwig’ believed to crawl into human ears and the association with listening closely.
  • Usage : “Stop trying to earwig on our conversation!”
  • Meaning : Something very easy.
  • Origin : Expanded version of ‘easy’, with the playful rhyme added for emphasis.
  • Usage : “Getting that job done was easy peasy.”
  • Meaning : A short break taken around 11 a.m. to consume a light refreshment, often with tea or coffee.
  • Origin : Refers to the time, 11 a.m., when this break is typically taken.
  • Usage : “I’m just making some scones for elevenses.”
  • Meaning : A public toilet is in use. Also means a phone line is busy.
  • Origin : Comes from the idea of being busy or occupied.
  • Usage : “Wait a moment, the restroom is engaged.”
  • Meaning : Very or extremely.
  • Origin : A way of emphasizing a description.
  • Usage : “Thank you, that’s ever so kind of you.”

Excuse my French

  • Meaning : An apology for swearing or using a bad word.
  • Origin : It’s a way of apologizing by pretending the swear word is a foreign language.
  • Usage : “He’s a pain in the ass, excuse my French.”
  • Meaning : Being annoyed or in a mood.
  • Origin : Possibly from the delicate nature of eggs and how easily they can be broken.
  • Usage : “She’s been a bit eggy since this morning.”
  • Meaning : A term often used in London to refer to a particular area or neighborhood.
  • Origin : Simply short for “end of the street” or a specific locality.
  • Usage : “Which ends are you from?”
  • Meaning : Short for “here” in phrases like “What’s going on here?”
  • Origin : Colloquial abbreviation.
  • Usage : “Oi, what’s going on ere?”
  • Meaning : A greeting, much like “Hello” or “Hey there”. Mostly used in the North of England.
  • Origin : Derived from “hey up”, where “up” is an old Middle English word meaning “on the rise” or “awake”.
  • Usage : “Ey up, mate. How’s it going?”
  • Meaning : Not to be confused with the tripod stand for artists, in slang, it can mean easy.
  • Origin : Rhyming slang, where words rhyme with the intended word.
  • Usage : “Don’t worry, it’s easel.”

Elbow Grease

  • Meaning : Hard physical work, especially when cleaning or polishing something.
  • Origin : Refers to the effort of scrubbing, which requires one to use their elbows energetically.
  • Usage : “You’ll need some elbow grease to clean that stain.”
  • Meaning : A cigarette.
  • Origin : Possibly shortened from ‘fag end’, which means the leftover or useless part, referring to the cigarette butt.
  • Usage : “Do you have a fag I could borrow?”
  • Meaning : To waste time on unimportant things; dithering.
  • Origin : It’s believed to come from the 17th century word ‘faffle’, which meant to flap about in the wind.
  • Usage : “Stop faffing about and get on with it!”
  • Meaning : To like or be attracted to.
  • Origin : Derived from the old French word ‘fantaisie’, which means preference or desire.
  • Usage : “I really fancy a cup of tea right now.” or “Do you fancy him?”
  • Meaning : Attractive or good-looking.
  • Origin : A play on someone being in ‘fit’ physical shape.
  • Usage : “Did you see that guy? He’s fit!”
  • Meaning : Unreliable; tends to forget or bail out on commitments.
  • Origin : Comes from the idea of something that easily falls apart, like flaky pastry.
  • Usage : “I wouldn’t count on him, he’s a bit flakey.”

Full of beans

  • Meaning : To be lively, energetic.
  • Origin : Refers to horses that were fed beans to increase their vitality and energy.
  • Usage : “My kids are full of beans this morning.”
  • Meaning : A period of two weeks.
  • Origin : From Old English ‘fēowertēne niht’, literally meaning fourteen nights.
  • Usage : “I’ll be on holiday for a fortnight.”
  • Meaning : The whole thing, full measure.
  • Origin : Possibly referring to Field Marshal Montgomery, a British officer in WWII, who was known for his full breakfasts. Another theory relates it to a strip show where everything is shown.
  • Usage : “If you’re going to have a roast, might as well go the full monty and include all the trimmings.”
  • Meaning : Football (or soccer, as it’s known in the US).
  • Origin : Abbreviation of “football.”
  • Usage : “Are you watching the footy tonight?”
  • Meaning : To sell something.
  • Origin : A reapplication of an older meaning, which was to beat or whip, suggesting the idea of pushing or getting rid of something.
  • Usage : “I’m going to flog my old sofa.”
  • Meaning : A five-pound note.
  • Origin : Simply derived from “five.”
  • Usage : “Can you lend me a fiver?”
  • Meaning : Bangs (the part of the hair that’s cut straight and hangs above the eyebrows).
  • Origin : Refers to the edge or border of something.
  • Usage : “I’m thinking of getting a fringe.”
  • Meaning : Home or place.
  • Origin : Possibly derived from Romany ‘gav’, meaning town or village.
  • Usage : “Come over to my gaff later for some tea.”
  • Meaning : The boss or person in charge.
  • Origin : From “gaff” which originally meant a fishing hook, leading to the meaning of someone who oversees fishing, and then more broadly, someone in charge.
  • Usage : “Ask the gaffer if we can leave early today.”
  • Meaning : To go around from one place to another in the pursuit of pleasure or entertainment.
  • Origin : Late 18th century alteration of ‘galant’ (associated with going about and flirting).
  • Usage : “She’s been gallivanting around Europe all summer.”
  • Meaning : Something that’s injured or lame. Often used to describe a leg or foot.
  • Origin : Possibly from an alteration of the word ‘gimpy.’
  • Usage : “I’ve got a gammy leg after that football match.”
  • Meaning : A man, often particularly used to describe an older man.
  • Origin : Originally referred to someone who went around in disguise, from the word ‘guise’. Its meaning has evolved over time.
  • Usage : “He’s a proper old geezer.”
  • Meaning : Amazed; astounded; utterly shocked.
  • Origin : From “gob” (mouth) and the word “smack”, suggesting the idea of being so surprised as if one had been slapped across the mouth.
  • Usage : “I was absolutely gobsmacked when I heard the news.”
  • Meaning : Deeply disappointed or upset.
  • Origin : Referring to the idea of having one’s insides or guts removed.
  • Usage : “I was gutted when my team lost the match.”

Guv’nor (or Guv)

  • Meaning : A term of address or title of respect for a man, often used humorously.
  • Origin : Short for “governor”, which was used as a title of respect for men.
  • Usage : “Alright, guv’nor? How’s it going?”
  • Meaning : Food.
  • Origin : Possibly from the old word “grub” meaning to dig, as in digging for food.
  • Usage : “What’s for grub tonight?”

Give it some welly

  • Meaning : Put more effort into something or go faster.
  • Origin : Refers to “Wellington boots”, implying the action of pressing down on a car’s accelerator pedal.
  • Usage : “If we want to get there on time, we need to give it some welly.”
  • Meaning : Have a look.
  • Origin : Derived from the way a gander (a male goose) stretches its neck to look at something.
  • Usage : “Have a gander at this magazine.”
  • Meaning : Someone who talks a lot and often loudly, sometimes in a rude manner.
  • Origin : Comes from “gob”, slang for mouth.
  • Usage : “She’s so gobby; she never stops talking.”
  • Meaning : Negotiate the price of something.
  • Origin : Early 17th century, from an Old Norse word meaning “to chop or cut”.
  • Usage : “He tried to haggle with the street vendor to get a better deal on the scarf.”
  • Meaning : Bad luck.
  • Origin : Refers to the concept of hard boundaries or limits.
  • Usage : “Hard lines, mate. Maybe next time.”

Her Majesty’s pleasure

  • Meaning : In prison.
  • Origin : Refers to the British monarch; being imprisoned is officially done by order of the monarch, hence at “Her Majesty’s pleasure”.
  • Usage : “He won’t be out for a while; he’s staying at Her Majesty’s pleasure.”
  • Meaning : Everything is fine; okay.
  • Origin : Uncertain, but possibly from an American slang term.
  • Usage : “How’s everything going?” “It’s all hunky-dory.”

Have a butcher’s

  • Origin : Cockney rhyming slang: “butcher’s hook” = “look”.
  • Usage : “Have a butcher’s at this photo, mate.”

Hard cheese

  • Meaning : Tough luck; bad fortune.
  • Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but cheese has been used in various slang contexts in British English.
  • Usage : “You missed the bus? Hard cheese, mate.”
  • Meaning : Informal greeting, short for “hi there” or “hello”.
  • Origin : Contraction of “hi there” or “how are you”.
  • Usage : “Hiya! Haven’t seen you in ages.”
  • Meaning : Holidays.
  • Origin : Simply a shortening of the word “holidays”.
  • Usage : “Where are you going for your hols this year?”
  • Meaning : Vomiting.
  • Origin : Onomatopoeic, from the noise made.
  • Usage : “Drank way too much last night and ended up honking.”

How’s your father

  • Meaning : Euphemism for sex or sexual activity.
  • Origin : Early 20th century; its origin is uncertain but thought to be from music hall songs that used the phrase as a euphemism.
  • Usage : “A little bit of ‘how’s your father’ after dinner.”
  • Meaning : Nose.
  • Origin : Early 19th century, originally denoting an owl, later (early 20th century) a horn, hence a nose.
  • Usage : “He’s got a huge hooter, hasn’t he?”
  • Meaning : Isn’t it? Often used rhetorically to punctuate or affirm a statement.
  • Origin : Contraction of “isn’t it”.
  • Usage : “It’s really cold today, innit?”

I’m easy

  • Meaning : I don’t mind; I have no strong preference.
  • Origin : Casual expression indicating the person’s ease with any decision.
  • Usage : “Which restaurant do you want to go to?” “I’m easy.”

It’s monkeys outside

  • Meaning : It’s very cold outside.
  • Origin : Likely an abbreviation of the longer phrase “cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey”.
  • Usage : “Make sure you wear a coat; it’s monkeys outside.”
  • Meaning : Teeth.
  • Origin : Refers to the ivory-like appearance of teeth.
  • Usage : “He’s got a set of ivories on him!”
  • Meaning : Upset or in a bad emotional state.
  • Origin : Referring to someone being broken down emotionally.
  • Usage : “After they broke up, she was in bits.”

In the buff

  • Meaning : Naked.
  • Origin : The word “buff” historically referred to a soft, undyed leather, similar in color to Caucasian skin.
  • Usage : “He was caught running around in the buff!”
  • Meaning : A desire to travel or move on.
  • Origin : Possibly from the restless sensation one feels when wanting to move or travel.
  • Usage : “I think I’ve got itchy feet; I want to see the world.”

I’ll give you a bell

  • Meaning : I will call you (on the phone).
  • Origin : ‘Bell’ referring to the ringing of the phone.
  • Usage : “Don’t worry, I’ll give you a bell later.”
  • Meaning : Uncertain or doubtful.
  • Origin : A colloquial term that probably evolved from the word “if”.
  • Usage : “The weather looks a bit iffy; we might need an umbrella.”
  • Meaning : Short for “isn’t” or “aren’t”.
  • Origin : Dialectical contraction often associated with Northern England.
  • Usage : “Int’ that John’s car?”

In a pickle

  • Meaning : In a difficult situation.
  • Origin : The term “pickle” comes from the Dutch word “pekel”, meaning “something piquant”, and originally referred to a spiced, salted vinegar that was used as a preservative.
  • Usage : “I forgot my wallet at home; I’m in a real pickle now.”
  • Meaning : Lucky.
  • Origin : Uncertain, but might be related to the idea of getting something sweet or good without much effort (like getting jam from a jar).
  • Usage : “He won the lottery? What a jammy bloke!”
  • Meaning : Go away or get lost.
  • Origin : Literally referring to someone starting to jog or move away.
  • Usage : “If you think I’m going to lend you money again, you can jog on!”
  • Meaning : Very or extremely; also used to describe something pleasant or enjoyable.
  • Origin : From the Old French “jolif”, meaning “merry” or “festive”.
  • Usage : “We had a jolly good time at the seaside.”
  • Meaning : A sweater or pullover.
  • Origin : Possibly from the action of “jumping” or “bouncing”, relating to the movement made when putting on the garment.
  • Usage : “It’s getting chilly outside; better put on a jumper.”
  • Meaning : To inject oneself with drugs.
  • Origin : The term “jack” has been used as slang for a small amount of something, especially in relation to drugs.
  • Usage : “He’s been jacking-up again, hasn’t he?”
  • Meaning : Buttocks or rear end.
  • Origin : Cockney rhyming slang, though the exact origin is unclear.
  • Usage : “He fell right on his jacksie!”
  • Meaning : A drink, typically referring to a pint of beer.
  • Origin : A jar traditionally being a container for liquids.
  • Usage : “Let’s head to the pub for a couple of jars.”

John Thomas

  • Meaning : A euphemistic term for the male genitalia.
  • Origin : Popularized by the novel “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” by D.H. Lawrence.
  • Usage : Not often used in daily conversation due to its explicit meaning.
  • Meaning : Good or excellent; also, a type of frozen drink.
  • Origin : “Jubbly” was a brand name for a triangular-shaped frozen drink. Over time, it became a slang term for something cool or excellent.
  • Usage : “It’s a hot day; fancy a jubbly?” or “That film was jubbly!”
  • Meaning : A person from Plymouth, Devon.
  • Origin : Uncertain, but it may derive from the phrase “cousin Jan” (akin to “John Doe”) which was used in Cornwall and Devon.
  • Usage : “He’s a true Janner, born and raised in Plymouth.”
  • Meaning : A lively party or dance.
  • Origin : Likely comes from the literal act of raising one’s knees while dancing.
  • Usage : “We’re having a knees up for Sharon’s birthday on Friday.”
  • Meaning : Very tired or exhausted.
  • Origin : Originally referred to a tired old horse that might be taken away by the “knacker” to be turned into glue or other products.
  • Usage : “I’m totally knackered after that workout.”
  • Meaning : A short sleep or nap.
  • Origin : Possibly from the Danish word “kipp” which means a short sleep.
  • Usage : “I’m going to have a quick kip before we go out tonight.”
  • Meaning : Set of personal equipment or belongings; also refers to clothing, especially a uniform.
  • Origin : From the Middle Dutch word “kitte” meaning a container for liquids.
  • Usage : “Have you got your football kit ready for the match?”
  • Meaning : An idiot or unpleasant person; also a euphemism for the male genitalia.
  • Origin : Old English “cnob”, meaning a round handle.
  • Usage : “Don’t be such a knob.” (Depending on the context, be cautious with its usage.)
  • Meaning : Women’s underwear.
  • Origin : Shortened from “knickerbockers”, which were a type of men’s clothing worn in the 19th century.
  • Usage : “I can’t find my favourite pair of knickers.”

Know your onions

  • Meaning : To be very knowledgeable or skilled in a particular area.
  • Origin : 1920s, but the exact origin is uncertain.
  • Usage : “If you need advice about cars, speak to Gary. He really knows his onions.”
  • Meaning : Referring to a situation being mild or easy, similar to how a korma is a mild curry.
  • Origin : From the dish “korma” which is a mild curry.
  • Usage : “That exam was korma.”
  • Meaning : Trousers or pants.
  • Origin : Possibly a variant of “kex”, a Northern English term for dried stems of certain plants, which then became used to refer to legs and, by extension, trousers.
  • Usage : “Those are some nice kecks you’ve got on.”
  • Meaning : A term used to describe the action of police containing a crowd in a restricted area, especially during protests.
  • Origin : Short for “kettling”, a tactic used by the police.
  • Usage : “The protesters were kettled for hours.”
  • Meaning : A young man, often one who behaves in a boisterous manner. Also associated with “lad culture.”
  • Origin : Old English “lædel”, meaning leading or conducting, later associated with young men.
  • Usage : “He’s one of the lads.”
  • Meaning : Flashy, showy, or aggressive.
  • Origin : Possibly from “leery”, which means wary or cautious, but took on a different tone in UK slang.
  • Usage : “That shirt’s a bit lairy, isn’t it?”
  • Meaning : Short for “legend”. Someone who is very admirable or entertaining.
  • Origin : Abbreviation of the word “legend”.
  • Usage : “You bought me coffee? You’re a ledge.”
  • Meaning : To run quickly.
  • Origin : Reference to using one’s legs to escape rapidly.
  • Usage : “The bus is coming! Leg it!”
  • Meaning : A fictitious, often humorous disease; used to refer to feeling slightly ill.
  • Origin : Popularized by the 1950s British radio comedy “The Goon Show.”
  • Usage : “I can’t come out tonight, I’ve got the lurgy.”
  • Meaning : Toilet.
  • Origin : Possibly from “guardez l’eau” (watch out for the water) in French, which was shouted in medieval times before throwing waste water from a window.
  • Usage : “I need to use the loo.”

Lost the plot

  • Meaning : Gone crazy or behaving irrationally.
  • Origin : A reference to a story or narrative going off course.
  • Usage : “He’s completely lost the plot since she left him.”
  • Meaning : Very good, attractive, or appealing.
  • Origin : Might be related to the old English word “luscious”.
  • Usage : “This cake is absolutely lush!”
  • Meaning : A young woman who behaves in a boisterously assertive manner.
  • Origin : Female version of “lad” combined with the “-ette” suffix.
  • Usage : “She’s not just one of the lads, she’s a ladette.”
  • Meaning : Something done for fun, even if slightly mischievous.
  • Origin : Possibly from the playful nature of larks, the bird.
  • Usage : “It was just a lark, we didn’t mean any harm.”
  • Meaning : Aggressive or confrontational.
  • Origin : Potentially a variation of “leery”.
  • Usage : “He got a bit lairy after a few drinks.”

Maccy D’s

  • Meaning : Slang term for McDonald’s.
  • Origin : A colloquial abbreviation.
  • Usage : “Fancy a burger from Maccy D’s?”
  • Meaning : Very enthusiastic or eager.
  • Origin : A phrase popularized by the Manchester music scene in the 1990s.
  • Usage : “He’s mad for it every time there’s a new game out.”
  • Meaning : Friend.
  • Origin : From the old French “mat”, meaning equal or peer.
  • Usage : “Alright, mate?”
  • Meaning : Annoyed or offended.
  • Origin : Possibly from “miff”, an old term for a trivial quarrel.
  • Usage : “She was really miffed when you forgot her birthday.”
  • Origin : Mint condition – refers to something being in perfect state.
  • Usage : “That concert was mint!”
  • Meaning : Light rain or drizzle.
  • Origin : A combination of “mist” and “drizzle”.
  • Usage : “Looks like it’s starting to mizzle outside.”
  • Meaning : A cat.
  • Origin : Possibly from “Maggy”, once a common name for a cow, later used as a name for a cat.
  • Usage : “That’s a cute moggy you’ve got there.”
  • Meaning : Friend or mate.
  • Origin : From the word “muck” (dirt), referencing going through thick and thin together.
  • Usage : “Hey mucker, long time no see!”
  • Meaning : A gullible person; or to attack someone.
  • Origin : Possibly from “muggins” meaning a fool, or from “mug” as a face (making a stupid face).
  • Usage : “Don’t be such a mug.” or “He got mugged on his way home.”
  • Meaning : Drunk or beaten up.
  • Origin : Uncertain, though some speculate a relation to “miller” and the grinding down or crushing of grain.
  • Usage : “Got absolutely mullered last night.”

Mum’s the word

  • Meaning : Keep this a secret; don’t tell anyone.
  • Origin : Possibly from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Part 2: “Seal up your lips and give no words but mum.”
  • Usage : “I’ll tell you, but mum’s the word, okay?”
  • Meaning : Unfashionable, lacking in style, or low quality.
  • Origin : The origins of “naff” are unclear, but it became popular in the 1970s.
  • Usage : “That shirt looks a bit naff, doesn’t it?”
  • Meaning : An informer, especially a police informer; or to annoy someone.
  • Origin : Originally a Romany word for “nose”, it evolved into a term for someone who “noses around”.
  • Usage : “Don’t be a nark!” or “That really narked me off.”
  • Meaning : To steal; or a state of disrepair; or a police station.
  • Origin : Possibly derived from Old English “hnecan” meaning to slay or take someone’s life.
  • Usage : “Someone nicked my bike.” or “My phone’s in the nick.” or “He’s down at the nick.”
  • Meaning : Stylish or particularly good.
  • Origin : From the 1860s, meaning neat and tidy.
  • Usage : “That’s a nifty jacket you’ve got there.”
  • Meaning : Food; or to eat.
  • Origin : Borrowed from Yiddish “nashn”, meaning to nibble.
  • Usage : “I’m starving, let’s get some nosh.” or “I’m going to nosh down on this pizza.”
  • Meaning : Nothing.
  • Origin : From Old English “nāwiht”, meaning “no thing”.
  • Usage : “There’s nowt left in the fridge.”
  • Meaning : A silly or foolish person.
  • Origin : Possibly derived from “numps”, an older term for a blockhead or numbskull.
  • Usage : “Don’t be such a numpty.”
  • Meaning : Head; or to headbutt.
  • Origin : “Nut” is an old term for the head, dating back to at least the 16th century.
  • Usage : “He’s off his nut.” or “He nutted him during the argument.”
  • Meaning : A crazy or mad person.
  • Origin : Derived from “nut”, slang for the head or mind.
  • Usage : “He’s a complete nutter!”
  • Meaning : Cold or chilly; or quick/fast.
  • Origin : Possibly from the quick movement of nipples when cold, or simply from the idea of quick movement.
  • Usage : “It’s a bit nippy outside.” or “That car’s quite nippy.”
  • Meaning : No problem or it’s okay.
  • Origin : Derived from the standard English usage of “bother” meaning trouble or difficulty.
  • Usage : “Can you help me with this? – No bother!”
  • Meaning : Small, miscellaneous items or tasks.
  • Origin : From “odd”, meaning strange or different.
  • Usage : “I’ve got a few odds and ends to sort out today.”

On the pull

  • Meaning : Trying to find someone to hook up with or date.
  • Origin : Probably derived from the idea of “pulling” someone in or attracting them.
  • Usage : “He’s going out tonight, and he’s definitely on the pull.”

On your bike

  • Meaning : A way to tell someone to go away.
  • Origin : Likely a more polite way to tell someone to leave, suggesting they get on their bike and ride off.
  • Usage : “You don’t like it? Well, on your bike then!”
  • Meaning : Are you okay?
  • Origin : Likely a contraction of “are you alright?”
  • Usage : “Orate, mate?”

Out of sorts

  • Meaning : Feeling a bit unwell or in a bad mood.
  • Origin : This phrase originally referred to printing type that had been used so often it was worn out or damaged.
  • Usage : “He seems a bit out of sorts today.”

Over the moon

  • Meaning : Extremely pleased or happy.
  • Origin : The phrase comes from a time when the moon was used as a measure of distance.
  • Usage : “She was over the moon with her exam results.”
  • Meaning : Anything.
  • Origin : From Old English “āwiht”, meaning “aught” or anything.
  • Usage : “You want owt from the shop?”
  • Meaning : Armpit.
  • Origin : From Middle English “oxter”, of North Germanic origin.
  • Usage : “I’ve got a pain in my oxter.”

Off one’s rocker

  • Meaning : Mad or crazy.
  • Origin : Referring to the idea that a person’s rocker, or balancing mechanism, is not working.
  • Usage : “He must be off his rocker to think that!”
  • Meaning : Off-license; a store that sells alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises.
  • Origin : Shortened form of “off-license”.
  • Usage : “I’m going to the offie to grab some beers.”
  • Meaning : A rude or obnoxious person.
  • Origin : Probably derived from the Greek “oikos” for house – an oik was originally a student from a non-prestigious school or non-Oxbridge University.
  • Usage : “Don’t be such an oik!”
  • Meaning : Rubbish or of poor quality.
  • Origin : Likely a shortened form of “underpants”, implying something is as undesirable as used underwear.
  • Usage : “That film was absolute pants!”
  • Meaning : Cold weather.
  • Origin : Derived from the feeling one might have in a cold park.
  • Usage : “It’s a bit parky outside.”

Pear-shaped

  • Meaning : When something goes wrong or awry.
  • Origin : Its exact origin is unclear, but it may be related to distorted, misshapen fruit or possibly from aeronautical slang.
  • Usage : “The meeting went a bit pear-shaped.”
  • Meaning : A little bit hungry.
  • Origin : From the word “peck”, like a bird pecking at food.
  • Usage : “I’m feeling a tad peckish. Shall we grab a bite?”
  • Meaning : To run away quickly.
  • Origin : Possibly related to the motion of pegs in machinery, or from the idea of pegging (throwing) oneself forward.
  • Usage : “When he saw the police, he pegged it.”

Penny-dropping moment

  • Meaning : The moment of realization.
  • Origin : From the old action of penny-in-the-slot machines, where the penny drops before the action starts.
  • Usage : “I had a penny-dropping moment about how the system worked.”
  • Meaning : Very cold.
  • Origin : Hyperbolic use of the verb “perish”.
  • Usage : “It’s perishing outside!”
  • Meaning : A foolish or annoying person.
  • Origin : Originally a slang term for the male genitals, but now used more widely as a derogatory term.
  • Usage : “Don’t be such a pillock.”
  • Meaning : Drunk.
  • Origin : Possibly derived from the idea of being ‘laid out’ like a wall waiting to be plastered.
  • Usage : “He got absolutely plastered last night.”
  • Meaning : Lies.
  • Origin : Rhyming slang. “Porky pies” rhymes with lies.
  • Usage : “Are you telling porkies?”
  • Meaning : Elegant, stylish, or upper class.
  • Origin : Disputed. Some believe it’s an acronym for “Port Out, Starboard Home”, the most desired ticket on ships traveling from England to India, while others argue it’s from Romany “posh-houri”, meaning “half-pence”.
  • Usage : “She lives in a posh part of town.”
  • Meaning : Genuine or very good.
  • Origin : From the Hindi word “pakka”, meaning “cooked, ripe”.
  • Usage : “That’s a pukka job you’ve done there.”
  • Meaning : Slang term for the British pound.
  • Origin : Originated from the Latin “quid pro quo”, which means “something for something”.
  • Usage : “He owes me twenty quid.”
  • Meaning : To be in a position where you are profiting or benefiting.
  • Origin : Derived from the use of “quid” meaning pound, implying a monetary gain.
  • Usage : “If this deal goes through, we’ll be quids in.”
  • Meaning : A type of hairstyle where the front hair is styled to stand up and curve back towards the back of the head.
  • Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but it’s been a popular style in various eras.
  • Usage : “He’s got a massive quiff today.”
  • Meaning : A derogatory slang term for female genitalia.
  • Origin : Dates back to the 18th century, but its exact origins are unclear.
  • Usage : Not commonly used in modern conversation due to its offensive nature.
  • Meaning : A traitor, especially someone who collaborates with an enemy occupation.
  • Origin : Named after Vidkun Quisling, a Norwegian leader who collaborated with the Nazis during WWII.
  • Usage : “He’s nothing but a quisling, siding with them.”
  • Meaning : In British English, it can mean “to a moderate degree” or “very”, depending on context.
  • Origin : From the Latin “quietus” meaning “quiet” or “calm”, its meaning has evolved over time.
  • Usage : “It’s quite cold out.” or “She’s quite the expert.”
  • Meaning : A brand of light, curly potato snack. Can also refer to a musical note.
  • Origin : The snack’s name might have been inspired by its lightness, much like the musical note’s short duration.
  • Usage : “Fancy a pack of quavers?”

Quick-sticks

  • Meaning : Quickly or in a hurry.
  • Origin : The exact origin is uncertain but may be related to the idea of moving quickly, as with “sticks” or legs.
  • Usage : “Get here quick-sticks!”

Quockerwodger

  • Meaning : A wooden puppet controlled by strings. Can also refer to a politician whose actions are controlled by someone else.
  • Origin : A combination of “quock”, an old word for wood, and “wodger”, meaning thing or creature.
  • Usage : “He’s nothing but a quockerwodger, doing whatever they tell him.”

Quids for quacks

  • Meaning : Money for nothing or very little effort.
  • Origin : An alteration of “quids in”, with “quacks” possibly being a nonsensical addition for rhyme.
  • Usage : “If we can automate it, it’s quids for quacks.”
  • Meaning : Trash, garbage. Can also be used to describe something that’s not very good.
  • Origin : Derived from Middle English “rubbous” meaning debris.
  • Usage : “Take out the rubbish.” or “That film was rubbish.”
  • Meaning : Very drunk.
  • Origin : Origin unclear, but it’s a colorful way to describe someone who is beyond tipsy.
  • Usage : “He got completely rat-arsed last night.”
  • Meaning : An argument or a noisy disturbance.
  • Origin : Comes from the Old English “rāw” which means “row or line”, potentially from the noise made in a line of disputing people.
  • Usage : “They had a right old row.”
  • Meaning : Money, specifically cash.
  • Origin : Referring to the reddish color of British banknotes.
  • Usage : “Do you have any reddies on you?”
  • Meaning : Tea.
  • Origin : Cockney rhyming slang. Rosie Lee rhymes with tea.
  • Usage : “Fancy a cup of Rosie Lee?”
  • Meaning : To call someone on the phone.
  • Origin : Refers to the ringing sound phones used to make.
  • Usage : “I’ll ring you later.”
  • Meaning : Something that’s overpriced or a fraud.
  • Origin : Originated in the 1960s in the context of theft.
  • Usage : “That bag is a total rip-off.”
  • Meaning : Cash or money that’s ready to be spent.
  • Origin : Refers to the readiness of the cash to be used.
  • Usage : “I’ve got my readies, let’s go shopping.”
  • Meaning : A disturbance or quarrel.
  • Origin : Possibly from the word “eruption” indicating a sudden outburst.
  • Usage : “There were ructions when he arrived.”

Rumpy pumpy

  • Meaning : A euphemism for sexual activity.
  • Origin : Thought to have originated in the 1970s, playful and non-specific term.
  • Usage : “They sneaked off for a bit of rumpy pumpy.”
  • Meaning : A series of drinks bought for a group at a bar.
  • Origin : Refers to the idea of everyone having a turn to buy a “round” of drinks.
  • Usage : “It’s your turn to buy the next round.”
  • Meaning : To avoid work or duty; to shirk.
  • Origin : Originated from the French word “esquiver”, meaning “to dodge”.
  • Usage : “He’s trying to skive off work again.”
  • Meaning : A derogatory term often used to describe a woman who is considered promiscuous. Can also mean to criticize or insult someone.
  • Origin : Derived from the old Norse word “slagg”, which refers to metal impurities.
  • Usage : “Don’t slag her off just because you disagree.”

Sod’s law

  • Meaning : A pseudolaw reflecting the principle that things will go wrong at the worst possible moment.
  • Origin : “Sod” is derived from “sodomite”, and the law refers to the idea that “if something can go wrong, it will”.
  • Usage : “Of course it rained as soon as the BBQ started. Sod’s law, isn’t it?”
  • Meaning : Completely naked.
  • Origin : Possibly derived from “stark naked”, with “stark” meaning completely or absolutely.
  • Usage : “He ran through the field starkers!”
  • Meaning : A long, passionate kiss.
  • Origin : Possibly from the Old Norse “snogga”, meaning “to snuggle”.
  • Usage : “They had a good snog at the end of the date.”
  • Origin : Originated from the British naval slang.
  • Usage : “I’m starving, let’s get some scran.”
  • Meaning : Having no money; broke.
  • Origin : Potentially derived from “skinned”, implying nothing left.
  • Usage : “I can’t go out tonight, I’m skint.”

Spend a penny

  • Meaning : A euphemism for going to the toilet.
  • Origin : Refers to the old practice of having to pay a penny to use a public restroom.
  • Usage : “Excuse me, I need to spend a penny.”
  • Meaning : A large and luxurious meal.
  • Origin : Thought to derive from the idea of food being slapped onto a plate.
  • Usage : “We had a slap-up meal at that new restaurant.”
  • Meaning : Organized, arranged, or resolved.
  • Origin : From the traditional definition of “sort”, to arrange or set in some kind of order.
  • Usage : “Got my weekend plans all sorted.”
  • Meaning : Ingratiating and wheedling in a way that is perceived as insincere or excessive.
  • Origin : Unknown, but has been in use since the late 19th century.
  • Usage : “He’s such a smarmy salesman.”
  • Meaning : Irritable or short-tempered.
  • Origin : Possibly from the idea of someone’s collar getting tight when they’re angry.
  • Usage : “Don’t get shirty with me!”
  • Meaning : A derogatory slang term for a person considered to be foolish or contemptible.
  • Origin : Derives from “toss off”, a slang term for male masturbation, but its usage has broadened to be a general insult.
  • Usage : “Don’t listen to him; he’s a complete tosser.”
  • Meaning : Television.
  • Origin : Simply a shortened form of the word “television”.
  • Usage : “What’s on the telly tonight?”
  • Origin : Unknown, but has been in use since the early 20th century.
  • Usage : “You can be such a twit sometimes.”
  • Meaning : A colloquial term for the male genitalia.
  • Origin : Unknown.
  • Usage : “He got hit right in the todger with that football.”

Take the piss

  • Meaning : To mock, ridicule, or take advantage of someone.
  • Origin : Possibly related to old slang meaning being “annoyed” or “disgruntled”.
  • Usage : “Are you taking the piss out of me?”

Tickety-boo

  • Meaning : Fine, okay, or in satisfactory condition.
  • Origin : Likely from the Hindu “ṭhīk hai, bābū”, which means “It’s alright, sir”.
  • Usage : “Everything’s tickety-boo on my end.”
  • Meaning : Refers to a woman who dresses in a provocative manner. Also refers to a loved one or sweetheart, similar to “dear” or “darling”.
  • Origin : Shortened from “sweetheart”.
  • Usage : “Hello, tart. How was your day?”
  • Meaning : Nonsense or rubbish.
  • Origin : Possibly from Romani “tajo”, meaning “thing”.
  • Usage : “That’s complete tosh!”
  • Meaning : Two shillings in pre-decimal currency. Used in phrases to indicate something is cheap or of low quality.
  • Origin : Refers to the British pre-decimal currency system.
  • Usage : “It looks a bit two bob, doesn’t it?”

Throw a wobbly

  • Meaning : To get very angry or to throw a tantrum.
  • Origin : Possibly from the visual of something wobbling out of control.
  • Usage : “She threw a wobbly when she found out.”
  • Meaning : A small amount of money. Historically, it referred to two pennies.
  • Origin : From the old British coinage system.
  • Usage : “I wouldn’t pay tuppence for that.”
  • Meaning : To refill a drink or increase the amount of credit on a mobile phone or card.
  • Origin : Literal meaning of adding to the top of something.
  • Usage : “Could you top up my wine, please?”

Up the duff

  • Meaning : Pregnant.
  • Origin : The exact origin is uncertain, but it’s been in use since at least the early 20th century.
  • Usage : “Did you hear? She’s up the duff.”
  • Meaning : Anxious or angry in a tense and overly controlled way.
  • Origin : Thought to originate in the late 1930s from “up-tight”, meaning in a state of tension or high alert.
  • Usage : “Don’t get so uptight about it.”

Use your loaf

  • Meaning : Use your head or think about it.
  • Origin : Cockney rhyming slang – “loaf of bread” = “head”.
  • Usage : “Come on, use your loaf!”
  • Meaning : Short for “university”.
  • Origin : Simply an abbreviation.
  • Usage : “He’s off to uni next month.”
  • Meaning : Stimulant drugs, especially amphetamines.
  • Origin : Refers to the stimulating, “upper” effect of the drugs.
  • Usage : “He’s been taking uppers all night.”

Under the weather

  • Meaning : Feeling ill or out of sorts.
  • Origin : Possibly nautical in origin, referring to sailors who went below deck due to illness, thus being under the weather.
  • Usage : “I’m feeling a bit under the weather today.”
  • Meaning : Eager or willing to try something out or participate.
  • Origin : Simply a direct meaning of the words, indicating one’s readiness or willingness.
  • Usage : “Are you up for a game of footy?”
  • Meaning : To move from one’s current place of residence.
  • Origin : Possibly from the idea of picking up one’s belongings (like a tent or campsite) to move.
  • Usage : “They’ve upped sticks and moved to the coast.”

Up one’s street

  • Meaning : Suited to one’s tastes or abilities.
  • Origin : Likely derived from the idea of something being in one’s neighborhood or area of expertise.
  • Usage : “Cooking? That’s right up her street.”
  • Meaning : A board game played in the Royal Navy, similar to Ludo.
  • Origin : Shortened form of “Uckers Bucker”, a variation of the name “Ludo”.
  • Usage : “Fancy a game of uckers?”
  • Meaning : Annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
  • Origin : From Old French vexer , or Latin vexare meaning ‘to shake, jolt, or annoy’.
  • Usage : “I was really vexed when he didn’t show up on time.”
  • Meaning : A traditional Romany wagon or caravan.
  • Origin : From the Romani word for wagon.
  • Usage : “They traveled around the country in a colorful vardo.”
  • Meaning : Relax to the point of complete inertia.
  • Origin : Derived from the word “vegetable”, implying the inactive state of vegetables.
  • Usage : “After a long day at work, I just want to veg out in front of the TV.”
  • Meaning : Somewhat or nearly.
  • Origin : Derived from the word “very” with the “-ish” suffix.
  • Usage : “The color is veryish like the one I wanted.”
  • Meaning : Energy or enthusiasm.
  • Origin : Possibly from Latin “vim”, the accusative case of “vis” meaning “force” or “power”.
  • Usage : “She tackled the project with vim and vigor.”
  • Meaning : Wine.
  • Origin : Shortened form of the Spanish/Italian word “vino”, meaning wine.
  • Usage : “Let’s crack open a bottle of vino.”
  • Meaning : Emergency money carried by a woman in case a date goes poorly.
  • Origin : From the term “vex”, meaning to be annoyed. The idea is having money in case one is annoyed or inconvenienced.
  • Usage : “Always have some vex money with you just in case.”

Vapours, the

  • Meaning : A dated reference to a swooning fit or a state of nervousness or anxiety.
  • Origin : Historically, believed to be related to fumes from the womb affecting the brain, a once-popular medical theory.
  • Usage : “She got the vapours when she saw the price tag.”
  • Meaning : Short for “vegetable” or “vegetarian”.
  • Usage : “Are there any veg options on the menu?”

Village bike

  • Meaning : A derogatory term referring to a woman who is considered promiscuous.
  • Origin : The implication being that everyone in the village has “had a ride”.
  • Usage : (This term is derogatory and should be avoided)
  • Meaning : To speak or write at length in a vague or trivial manner.
  • Origin : Possibly related to the weaving pattern of a waffle, going back and forth without clear direction.
  • Usage : “He tends to waffle on without making a clear point.”
  • Meaning : A humorous or mischievous person; also refers to truanting from school.
  • Origin : Shortened form of “waghalter”, a 16th-century term for a mischievous boy.
  • Usage : “He’s such a wag, always up to some prank.”
  • Meaning : Effort or force. Also refers to wellington boots.
  • Origin : “Welly” for force might come from ‘give it some welly’, meaning to put effort into something; the boot is from the Duke of Wellington.
  • Usage : “Put some welly into it!” or “It’s raining; best wear your wellies.”
  • Meaning : To complain persistently and in a peevish or irritating way.
  • Origin : From Old English “hwinsian” meaning ‘to whine’.
  • Usage : “He does nothing but whinge about the weather.”
  • Meaning : To tease or to irritate someone intentionally; or to conclude something.
  • Origin : Possibly from the winding motion, as in winding a clock, leading to the idea of ‘setting someone off’.
  • Usage : “Are you winding me up?” or “Let’s wind up this meeting.”
  • Meaning : Not straight; shaky or unsteady; not reliable.
  • Origin : Unknown, first known use in the 1910s.
  • Usage : “That shelf looks a bit wonky.”
  • Meaning : A greeting, short for “what cheer” or “what do you say”.
  • Origin : Derived from “what chere be with you?” which is Middle English.
  • Usage : “Wotcha mate, how’s it going?”
  • Meaning : A derogatory term used to describe someone acting in an undesirable manner.
  • Origin : British slang, referring to masturbation.
  • Usage : “Don’t be such a wanker.”

Wardrobe malfunction

  • Meaning : An unintended exposure of bodily parts.
  • Origin : Popularized after the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show incident involving Janet Jackson.
  • Usage : “She had a minor wardrobe malfunction during the event, but handled it gracefully.”
  • Meaning : Out of order; not right. Also can mean to hit something.
  • Origin : Old English “whacian”, meaning ‘to strike’.
  • Usage : “That’s totally whack.” or “I might whack the TV to get it working.”
  • Meaning : Suitable for adults only because of sexual or violent content.
  • Origin : Originally a film classification in the UK from the British Board of Film Censors (now the British Board of Film Classification). It was introduced in 1951 and was replaced by the “18” rating in 1982.
  • Usage : “That movie isn’t for kids; it’s X-rated.”

X-marks-the-spot

  • Meaning : A phrase used to indicate a precise location, especially on a map or diagram.
  • Origin : Often linked with pirate tales where X would mark the location of hidden treasure on a map.
  • Usage : “You’ll find the building right here, X-marks-the-spot.”
  • Meaning : To talk incessantly.
  • Origin : Possibly onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of constant chatter.
  • Usage : “She just yaks on and on about her holidays.”
  • Meaning : To pull with a jerk; also a colloquial term for an American.
  • Origin : For pulling – Old English “geonc”, meaning ‘to pull’; for American – Short for “Yankee”, which has origins dating to the American Revolutionary War.
  • Usage : “Yank that cord!” or “He’s a Yank, from New York.”
  • Meaning : A very long time.
  • Origin : Possibly a corrupted version of “donkey’s years”, which also means a long time.
  • Usage : “I haven’t seen him in yonks.”
  • Meaning : A rude or uncouth person.
  • Origin : It’s “boy” spelled backward and is believed to have been used as a code by Victorian prison guards to refer to troublesome inmates.
  • Usage : “Don’t hang around with those yobs.”
  • Meaning : A young professional person working in a city.
  • Origin : 1980s: abbreviation of ‘young upwardly mobile professional’.
  • Usage : “The city center is full of yuppies.”
  • Meaning : A long, often elaborate narrative of real or fictive adventures; an entertaining tale.
  • Origin : Old English “gearn”, in the sense of ‘spun thread’.
  • Usage : “He always has a good yarn to share about his travels.”
  • Meaning : To talk persistently and loudly.
  • Origin : Middle English, from Old English “geomrian” to lament; akin to Old High German “jammern” to moan.
  • Usage : “She’d yammer on about her problems to anyone who’d listen.”
  • Meaning : An expression of excitement or enthusiasm.
  • Origin : Perhaps a variant of German “Jawohl” or simply an expressive formation.
  • Usage : “Yowser! That’s an impressive trick.”
  • Meaning : Sleep.
  • Origin : From the letter ‘Z’, often associated with sleeping sounds in comic strips.
  • Usage : “I need to catch some zeds before the big day tomorrow.”
  • Meaning : Extremely tired or exhausted; sometimes used to mean intoxicated or drugged.
  • Origin : 1960s, perhaps echoing the sound of a heavy object hitting the ground.
  • Usage : “After that long hike, I’m absolutely zonked.”
  • Meaning : A pattern made up of small corners at variable angles.
  • Origin : Late 17th century, from French. It’s imitative, from the sound of something moving to and fro.
  • Usage : “The road goes in a zigzag up the mountain.”
  • Meaning : A man’s suit with high-waisted, wide-legged, tight-cuffed trousers and a long coat with padded shoulders.
  • Origin : 1930s and 1940s, especially in the Hispanic community in the US. From “zoot” which is possibly a reduplication of “suit”.
  • Usage : “He wore a zoot suit with a reet pleat.”
  • Meaning : Nothing at all.
  • Origin : 1960s, perhaps from US slang “zilchus” meaning ‘worthless person’, of unknown origin.
  • Usage : “How much money do you have? Zilch.”
  • Meaning : Lively, energetic.
  • Origin : 1960s, of unknown origin; perhaps related to zap.
  • Usage : “It was a zappy tune that got everyone on their feet.”
  • Meaning : A magazine, especially a self-published or underground publication.
  • Origin : Shortened from “magazine”.
  • Usage : “She publishes her poetry in a quarterly zine.”
  • Meaning : Move or travel very quickly; or increase suddenly and significantly.
  • Origin : Onomatopoeic; mimicking the sound of a fast-moving object.
  • Usage : “He zoomed past me on the motorway.”
  • Meaning : Police patrol cars.
  • Origin : From the 1962-1978 BBC television drama series “Z-Cars”.
  • Usage : “Call the Zed Cars to the scene.”
  • Meaning : Make more exciting, lively, or attractive.
  • Origin : 1970s, possibly from Polari, the coded language used by some gay men in Britain in the mid-20th century, from Romani “žužo” ‘clean, neat’.
  • Usage : “She zhooshed up her outfit with some flashy accessories.”

That’s it for our list of British slang! Thanks for continuing to expand your vocabulary with us.  Did we miss something? Let us know down below in the comments ⤵.

Fascinated by Slang ? Explore More ! Discover other captivating slang terms and their origins. Here are a few more gems for you:

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what does essayed mean in slang

What Does Essayed Mean Sexually Urban Dictionary

When it comes to navigating the world of sexuality and relationships, it’s important to understand the various terms and slang that may pop up. One such term that has gained popularity in recent years is ‘essayed,’ as defined by the Urban Dictionary. So, what does ‘essayed’ mean in a sexual context?

According to the Urban Dictionary, ‘essayed’ refers to the act of exploring or attempting something sexually. It can be used to describe trying out new techniques, positions, or experiences with a partner. Essentially, it’s about experimenting and pushing boundaries in the bedroom.

For example, a couple might decide to essayed a new kink they’ve been curious about, or a person could essayed incorporating toys into their solo play. The term encompasses a wide range of sexual activities and interests, emphasizing the importance of exploration and open communication in sexual relationships.

Case studies have shown that essayed can lead to increased satisfaction and intimacy in relationships. By being open to trying new things and discussing desires with partners, individuals can discover new depths of pleasure and connection. This can help keep relationships exciting and fulfilling over time, preventing stagnation and boredom.

Statistics also support the benefits of essayed in sexual relationships. A survey conducted by a leading relationship research institute found that couples who regularly essayed new activities in the bedroom reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction and overall relationship happiness. This highlights the importance of keeping an open mind and being willing to step outside of one’s comfort zone when it comes to sex.

In conclusion, understanding what ‘essayed’ means in a sexual context can help individuals navigate their relationships and explore new avenues of pleasure. By embracing the spirit of essayed, people can foster greater intimacy, satisfaction, and excitement in their sexual experiences. So don’t be afraid to essayed new things and push the boundaries of your sexual boundaries!

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Sex slang glossary: 20 naughty terms from rail to Netflix and Chill

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Sex slang glossary: XX naughty terms from rail to Netflix and Chill

To quote Salt-N-Pepa, let’s talk about sex , baby. Or, rather, let’s talk about how we talk about sex.

Whether it’s a euphemism used to shy away from talking about a topic that’s too taboo from some, or the complete opposite and a visceral, visual slang term that penetrates the mind, we’ve invented a lot of ways to start discourse around intercourse.   

There’s a popular tidbit about the Inuit people having over 50 words for snow, but we might have them beat for the different terms for sex.

Here, we take a look at some of the favourite phrases used to discuss doing the deed…

What does getting railed mean?

Let’s start off with one of the more uncouth phrases – since Google search results indicate a lot of people are curious as to what this particular saying means.

Getting railed, quite literally, means having sex – or, if you prefer to take the cue from Urban Dictionary, it means the act of having wild, wild sex.

Feet of couple in bed

So, making romantic, meaningful love, this is not.

Netflix and Chill

Netflix and chill has become the most common mating call for a modern day audience.

To Netflix and Chill implies putting on Netflix as background noise – or a convincing alibi – as you and your partner(s) engage in a bit of consensual fun.

Some of these terms get their names from the implication that a penis is involved in the act.

Lesbian couple

Boning is such a term – entering the lexicon most likely as an after-effect to boner becoming a popular term for an erect penis.

D***ing down

If you have been d***ed down, you have had vigorous sex – this one is fairly self-explanatory.

Clapping cheeks

Getting one’s cheeks clapped is a newer term which is rising in popularity.

The name comes from the idea that, when you are in the throes of very intense sex, bum cheeks could make a clapping sound.

Porking is another term people use forhaving sex.

We wouldn’t suggest Googling the term, but there are some who think the term came about because squealing, the sound associated with pigs, is sometimes the sign that sexual partners are having a good time.

Couple watching television together and eating popcorn

The origins of this term should be fairly obvious for anyone with, or who has sex with people with, a penis, sometimes colloquially called a shaft.

Nothing to do with the crime fighting cop.

This is a term most often associated with sexual acts between people who identify as men.

Breeding, or to be bred, generally means having unprotected anal sex.

There are too many to name, but other phrases for having sex that deserve a shoutout include:

  • Laying pipe
  • Taking the skin boat to tuna town
  • Getting drilled
  • Nutting/Busting a nut

Euphemisms for having sex   

In Human Nature, Queen of Pop and queen of never shying away from the subject, Madonna proclaimed ‘oops, I didn’t know I couldn’t talk about sex’ – and she was on to something.

Some people are more comfortable using gentler language to avoid any blushes.

Some euphemisms that actually mean having sex include:

  • Making love
  • Knocking boots
  • Hitting the sheets
  • Going all the way
  • Getting lucky

MORE : Woman reveals how to have an orgasm by rubbing your lower back

MORE : Mindful sex could give your sex life the boost you’ve been looking for

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TikTok Slang: A Complete Guide To The Meanings Behind Each Phrase

Here's your complete guide to all the slang terms used on TikTok and what they mean – including DC, IB and FYP.

1. A complete guide to TikTok slang and what all the words mean

In the same way that Twitter and Instagram have given us new, memorable slang terms, TikTok users are now contributing to the internet lexicon. From new Gen Z words like ‘Heather’ and Gen Alpha words like 'Skibidi' to platform-specific terms like FYP, IB and DC, here’s all the important and popular TikTok slang terms and abbreviations that you need to know.

2. What does FYP mean on TikTok?

This one is pretty simple. That #FYP you see everywhere on TikTok? It means ‘For You Page’. The FYP is the main timeline you see when you log into the app. Rather than showing you the videos of people you follow, the FYP presents you with popular, viral and random videos that you might like based on your personal algorithm.

3. What does CEO mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, CEO means the same thing as it does in real life… Chief Executive Officer. To be called a ‘CEO of’ something on TikTok means that you’re the absolute best at it. CEO of dance challenges, CEO of comments, CEO of going viral… you get the idea.

4. What does PFP mean on TikTok?

The meaning behind PFP is simple... it means profile picture.

5. What does POV mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, POV means the same thing as it does in real life… Point of View. POV is often used in captions and on-video captions to signify when the viewer is meant to be watching it from their own perspective.

6. What does OOMF mean on TikTok?

OOMF is an acronym for One Of My Followers. It’s predominantly used on TikTok and Twitter.

7. What does Heather mean on TikTok?

The term Heather has a few meanings on TikTok. The first refers directly to the iconic ‘80s film, Heathers. In the movie, the Heathers were a group of wealthy, preppy and popular students. In this case, being a Heather can have negative connotations, seeing as they were the ‘mean girls’ of their day. In 2020, the term took on a new meaning thanks to Conan Gray’s song. To be called a Heather in this context means you’re gorgeous, desirable and the other person wishes they could be you.

8. What does IB mean on TikTok?

If you see the letters ‘IB’ in a TikTok caption, it means that the video has been ‘inspired by’ another viral or notable video. The original users @ will usually be tagged alongside the letters.

9. What does DC mean on TikTok?

If you see the letters ‘DC’ in a TikTok caption, it means that the TikTok user is giving ‘dance credits’ to the originator of a viral dance or challenge. The original creator's username will usually be tagged alongside the letters.

10. What does Alt TikTok mean?

Alt TikTok is one of the main ‘sides’ of TikTok. Alt TikTok (short for alternative) is for more of the quirky Gen Z humour and meme-y type TikTok users. Here, you’ll find other sides of TikTok including Frog TikTok and Fairy Comment TikTok.

11. What does Straight TikTok mean?

Straight TikTok is one of the main ‘sides’ of TikTok. Straight TikTok is where you’ll find the dances and the majority of the content house TikTokers, like the Hype House. Basically, it’s the more mainstream side of the app.

12. What do the finger emojis mean on TikTok?

The 'two fingers touching' emoji sequence essentially mean 'shy'. As if you were twiddling your fingers together, nervously. The emojis can often be paired with the watery eye emoji too, for extra nervous vibes.

13. What does #xyzbca mean on TikTok?

The #xyzbca hashtag is simply just a popular hashtag that people use in the hopes of getting more views on their TikTok videos. It’s kind of like #FYP and #ForYouPage. It unfortunately has no meaning at all. It’s just a bunch of letters.

14. What does Shifting mean on TikTok?

Shifting (sometimes called reality shifting) is a way of training your mind to enter a ‘new reality’. It started on Reddit a while ago but has become popular on TikTok. To shift, you need to lie down and imagine your ‘desired reality’. It’s essentially a mix between meditation, manifestation and lucid dreaming. The results are said to feel like an extremely realistic and vivid dream.

15. What does ratio mean on TikTok?

Ratio is a popular term used on social media and when it comes to TikTok, it’s all to do with the comment section. To get ‘ratioed’ on TikTok means that your comment has more replies than likes. Usually, this means that your comment has NOT gone down well. If you get ratioed, it’s kind of a bad thing.

16. What does Simp mean on TikTok?

According to Urban Dictionary, ‘simp’ stands for 'Suckas Idolising Mediocre Pussy'. Essentially, it’s a term for a man who will do absolutely anything for a woman in the hopes of getting sex or a relationship in return. The term has softened thanks to TikTok. Now, people often refer to themselves as a simp for certain celebrities (or real people) they have a crush on.

17. What does Shadowbanned mean on TikTok?

Shadowbanning is when your content is ‘blocked’ without you knowing by TikTok. Your account can be removed from searches, and your reach will be limited to your own followers. Users tend to notice that they’ve been shadowbanned on TikTok when their view count drops. The same thing can happen on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

18. What does the Brain emoji mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, the brain emoji has a bit of a NSFW meaning. It basically means oral sex, or 'give brain'/'give head'. It went viral in a video that explained how doctors can tell whether or not you've done it or not based on the roof of your mouth, and now TikTokers have officially crowned it as the latest emoji with a hidden meaning.

19. What does Caught In 4k mean on TikTok?

To 'catch someone in 4k' means to capture their reaction or behaviour to a situation on camera, in clear view. The phrase has been on TikTok for a while now, but it's recently being used when guys fall for the 'Hey Lol' audio challenge. Users will play Khaleel's song, which samples a Porn Hub intro, out loud and people who have "been to the hub" will usually look up to see what's going on. Of course, the other person will be filming them, catching their reaction "in 4k".

20. What does Accountant mean on TikTok?

If you've ever been on TikTok, you'll have no doubt heard the "I'm an accountant" song. TikTokers use this song as a tongue-in-cheek way to dodge questions about their true jobs, and where they got all their money from – because "nobody asks you questions when you say you're an accountant." Originally, Rocky Paterra wrote the song about how he would dodge questions as a struggling actor. The term was then adopted by sex workers or people who have OnlyFans accounts.

21. What does Sheesh mean on TikTok?

You may have heard a lot of TikTokers or seen a lot of comments using the 'word' sheesh on TikTok recently. The phrase basically means to either be impressed or to express disbelief or exasperation.

22. What does ASL mean on TikTok?

ASL is not a new phrase that comes from TikTok, it's actually a standard internet phrase that stands for 'age, sex, location'. However, some TikTok users are also using the phrase as a shortened way to say "as hell". That new meaning has now become the most popular explanation for the term amongst Gen Z users on the platform.

23. What does Mutuals/Moots mean on TikTok?

If you've seen the word 'mutuals' (or 'moots' for short), then that means someone is talking about their followers who also follow them back.

24. What does Bussin mean on TikTok?

Bussin is a word that frequently pops up on TikTok, and it means that something is really good.

25. What does Valid mean on TikTok?

You may understand valid to mean acceptable or reasonable, but it has a slightly different meaning within social media slang terms. According to Urban Dictionary, valid also means something that is very good or of a really high standard.

26. What does Cheugy mean on TikTok?

Cheugy means something that is off-trend. It's mostly aimed at millennial styles and trends, and it's similar to calling someone basic. Things that make someone 'Cheugy', according to the CheugLife Instagram, include: Anything that says "girlboss", Harry Potter merch, Ugg slippers, going to Disney as an adult, posing in front of a wall mural for an Instagram picture, Eos lipbalms... you get the picture.

27. What does Sneaky Link mean on TikTok?

A Sneaky Link is pretty much what you think it is... it's a slang term for someone who is hooking up with another person in secret. The term is also used in a viral TikTok song called 'Sneaky Link' by HXLLYWOOD.

28. What does Face Card mean on TikTok?

You may have heard the term Face Card being thrown around on TikTok and Twitter recently, but there's a couple of different meanings to the phrase. On social media, the latest interpretation basically means that you're stunning, you always have been and you always will be. People share their selfies alongside captions such as "face card always valid" or "face card never declined". However, the popular street slang meaning refers to your reputation, and the fact that people respect you.

29. What does Fruity mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, Fruity is a term used to describe someone who belongs to the LGBTQ+ community. It's not actually a new term either, and some might actually find it to be offensive, but it's currently being reclaimed by the Gay TikTok subculture. The term picked up popularity on the app after TikTok user Mattie (@westbrouck) put the word into context in a viral video.

30. What does 4Lifers mean on TikTok?

The phrase '4Lifers' gained popularity on TikTok thanks to a viral video from @boobackbaby, featuring rapper and producer Lucki saying “what we is? 4lifersss!” 4Lifers means a group of friends, or siblings, or family members who will always be in each others lives no matter what - for life, obviously. The term may also be shorted to 4L on some social media platforms too.

31. What does BBL mean on TikTok?

There’s been a lot of videos about BBLs on the TikTok FYP recently, but what exactly does it stand for? BBL is actually an acronym for a surgery called a Brazilian Butt Lift, which takes fat from one area of the body and moves it to the butt to make it bigger. TikTokers are sharing the before and afters of their cosmetic procedures with their followers.

32. What does Hot Girl Summer mean on TikTok?

Chances are you already know what Hot Girl Summer means, but after a whole year spent inside, the Megan Thee Stallion-coined phrase is making a huge comeback for 2021. Hot Girl Summer is an inclusive phrase all about feeling confident, having fun, looking good, not caring about what others think and living your best life unapologetically – usually while not in a relationship.

33. What does AS/Adult Swim mean on TikTok?

The Adult Swim trend is taking over TikTok, with users creating their own 'bumpers' in the style of the iconic Cartoon Network adult-themed programming block. Users will film themselves in random places, and then put a caption or 'adult swim' over the top. The posts will usually be tagged with #AdultSwim or #AS.

34. What does ALR mean on TikTok?

ALR has a few meanings online but the most popular definition on TikTok is that is means 'alright'. The #ALR hashtag is also used on popular videos in order to get more views.

35. What does YT mean on TikTok?

If you've seen the letters 'YT' all over your For You Page and you thought it mean YouTube, you wouldn't be the only one. However, 'YT' is actually a slang term or abbreviation for 'white', and people use it to refer to someone's race or skin tone.

36. What does TVA mean on TikTok?

If you've been wondering what TVA means on TikTok, or who The TVA are, then you probably haven't watched any of Disney+'s Loki series yet. The acronym comes from Marvel, and it means Time Variance Authority. The TVA are a fictional organisation that monitor and protect the sacred timeline in the MCU.

37. What does Looted mean on TikTok?

The term ‘looted’ was popularised by TikToker user @chasinn.loot. The word is a synonym for “drip” and “swag”, used to describe someone’s outfit or style. A lot of @chasinn.loot’s videos also use the snippet of YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s ‘I Don't Know’.

38. What does BMS mean on TikTok?

BMS, in TikTok terms, means ‘broke my scale’. The scale that it’s referring to is actually an attractiveness scale, and has nothing to with weight. Broke My Scale is used by TikTokers when commenting on people’s videos, referring to their physical attractiveness. Who knew?!

39. What does KLM mean on TikTok?

Well, there's a couple of meanings for KLM. The first, according to Urban Dictionary is that it's "another way of writing Calm, which means like fine or okay." The acronym is also the name of a Dutch airline. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij N.V.) are not currently on TikTok but there is a parody account that often roasts Irish airline Ryanair.

40. What does Sizing Up mean on TikTok?

To you and me, to "size up" someone means to form a judgment of something or someone. But on TikTok, people are finding out that it has a whole different meaning in slang terms, a sexual meaning that is actually pretty awful. An entry on Urban Dictionary defines "sizing up" as "when a guy examines a girls thighs in order to see if she can take dick from him".

41. What does DNI mean on TikTok?

If you've seen 'DNI' anywhere on TikTok, it means 'Do Not Interact'. The internet acronym is mostly used by users who share NSFW and adult content that is not meant for anyone under the age of 18. The phrase allows users to signpost that they will not interact with underage people, and signifies a content warning to minor users. Users also use DNI when they don't want to interact with people who support or follow certain things.

42. What does 1437 mean on TikTok?

The 1437 TikTok phrase actually means "I love you forever". The phrase is all to do with the number of letters in each word. For example, "I" is a one letter word therefore the 1 in 1437 represents that. "Love" contains four letters, “you” contains 3 letters and “forever” contains 7 letters. Although the term is popular on TikTok, it's actually been used as an abbreviation for years in text messages and on chat forums.

43. What does Devious Lick mean on TikTok?

You’ve probably seen “Devious Lick” going viral on TikTok recently. The phrase essentially means ’stolen goods’ or is used to describe that has been stolen in a sneaky way. It was first popularised by TikTok user @dtx.2cent who posted a video of a hand-sanitiser machine in a backpack alongside the caption: "Only a month into school and got this absolute devious lick." The video quickly gained over 7.2 million views in two days.

44. What does ATP mean on TikTok?

ATP actually has a number of meanings on the app. The hashtag will usually refer to the ATP tennis tour, while other slang terms mean “at this point” and “answer the phone”. People have been using the abbreviation in a number of ways on the app.

45. What does the chair emoji mean on TikTok?

The chair emoji has started flooding comment sections on TikTok recently. The emoji is actually part of an “inside joke” started by user @blank.antho who told his followers to replace the laughing emoji with a chair. The joke went viral, and now people are sending chair emojis on videos that they find funny.

46. What does Baka mean on TikTok?

Baka means ‘idiot’, 'stupid', ‘fool’ or 'dumb' in Japanese language. The word can considered quite rude in some cases, depending on how you say it. But TikTokers – namely Anime and Manga fans – are using it in a jokey, light-hearted way.

47. What does Pick Me Girl mean on TikTok?

The term Pick Me Girl didn’t originate on TikTok but it’s become one of the defining terms for a certain type of user on the app. A Pick Me Girl, by the internet’s definition, is someone who acts or claims that she is “not like other girls”, usually to gain attention from guys. Pick Me Boys also apparently exist, and have been likened to Simps.

48. What does YMCA mean on TikTok?

YMCA is referenced in Bo Burnham’s song ‘Words, Words, Words.’ The lyrics, “Met a girl named Macy, had sex with her all day. But she was dyslexic, so I ended up doin the YMCA”, have gone viral on the app, referencing the Village People’s iconic ‘YMCA’ dance routine. YMCA stands for ‘Young Men's Christian Association’.

49. What does Bones Day mean on TikTok?

Bones Day and No Bones Day were born thanks to Noodle the Pug. Noodle was a 13-year-old dog whose owner, Jonathan Graziano, filmed him waking up each morning. If the dog was able to stand up, it’s a Bones Day. If he flopped back down, it’s a No Bones Day. A Bones Day means you should seize the day and make the most of it. A No Bones Day means it’s time to wrap it up and start again tomorrow.

50. What does SW mean on TikTok?

There’s a couple of meanings for SW on the internet, but the primary meaning behind the term on TikTok is ‘Sex Worker’ (including people who earn money from OnlyFans) or 'Sex Work'. TikTok users often use ‘SW’ instead of the full name when discussing or posting about the topic in order to avoid being shadow banned by the algorithms or having their account removed.

51. What does W mean on TikTok?

W is a popular term in sport and gaming. When someone simply puts a "W" in the comment section, it means they're saying "Win" or congratulating someone on their success. It's the opposite of someone taking an "L," which means to lose. Obviously.

52. What does Hogging mean on TikTok?

Hogging word that describes a derogatory and offensive sexual “competition” between groups of guys at fraternities. According to Urban Dictionary, “participants go with the direct intention of hooking up with the fattest girl at the party.” The term has been called out on social media.

53. What does Mid mean on TikTok?

If you've come across the word 'mid' being used in comments or in captions on TikTok and have no idea what it actually means, here's your answer... Mid is a word to describe something that is mediocre. It's not something that is bad, but it's not something that is good either. It's just... fine. Average. Mid.

54. What does Abow mean on TikTok?

‘Abowwww’ first started going viral in January 2022, thanks to a song by ShantiiP X TarioP called ‘Throw It Back (Abow)’. According to TikTok users, ‘Abow’ is a phrase that used in Arabic as well as Turkish, and is commonly used in Sweden as a slang term for ‘wow’ or something similar to ‘omg’. Others have also said the term is often used to hype someone up.

55. What does Pushing P mean on TikTok?

Pushing P made its way to the TikTok mainstream in January 2021, thanks to Gunna and Future’s new track ‘Pushin’ P’. P essentially means something positive, to 'keep it real'. If something is P, it means it’s good. If something is not P, it’s bad. According to Complex, Gunna explained the term on Instagram live, saying: “F*cking your partner’s main bitch ain’t P. If you hold the door for a lady, that’s P. Arguing with your partner about money ain’t P. We ain’t doing that. We’re pushing P.”

56. What does Crop mean on TikTok?

If you logged onto TikTok in April 2022, then you’ll have probably come across million of people asking for people to ‘crop’ their videos in the comment section. Basically, when someone comments ‘crop’ on a video, it means they want the user to reupload the video so it’s not obscured by anything else on the page (e.g. like button, search bar, caption). You’ll usually see these comments when someone is sharing photos of celebrities or meme edits.

57. What does Chupaghetti mean on TikTok?

Chupaghetti went viral on TikTok in April 2022, with users leaving copyists comments detailing the ‘recipe for chupaghetti’. Chupaghetti doesn’t really have a meaning, it’s pretty much made up. Some users have pointed out that the word is a mashup of the Filipino word ‘chupa’ (which loosely translates to suck) and spaghetti.

58. What does NSFR mean on TikTok?

According to Urban Dictionary, NSFR means Not Safe For Ramadan. Much like NSFW (Not Suitable For Work), TikTokers are using the term during the month of Ramadan as a hashtag on certain videos.

59. What does Kaw mean on TikTok?

If you’ve seen the hashtag #Kaw or #Kaws popping up on videos all over your FYP, then you’ll know it’s all to do with a brand of art figures and sculptures by artist KAWS. Based on the videos under the hashtag, it all seems like a pretty harmless trend. However, there is also a horrible, graphic Urban Dictionary definition that's been circulating that suggests the term means "kill all women". As a result, the search results for 'Kaw' do not show up due to "hateful behaviour".

60. What does Vabbing mean in TikTok?

If you haven’t heard about ‘Vabbing’ yet, you’ve probably been living under a rock. Vabbing, a combination of the words “vagina” and “dabbing”, is a recent trend that sees people use their vaginal fluids as ‘perfume’ to attract potential partners.

61. What does Gyatt mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, GYATT is said to be an inside joke ‘between the guys’. According to Urban Dictionary, 'GYAT', or 'GYATT' is a shortened term for ‘goddamn’ that guys use when they see a girl, usually with a curvy body type, they think is attractive. The term is commonly used within Twitch streams.

62. What does DTB mean on TikTok?

This one has two meanings, depending on who is saying it/who you're saying it about. The ‘DT’ in DTB stands for ‘Don’t Trust’, and the B either stands for ‘Boys’ or ‘Bitches’.

63. What does Body Count mean on TikTok?

There’s two different meanings for ‘body count’. The first refers to the number of people that have been killed in a real life event or in a film, TV show or game. The other mean refers to the number of people someone has had sex with. When you see someone asking about another persona’s body count, they’re usually referring to the question about sex.

64. What does NPC mean on TikTok?

NPC stands for Non-Playable Character. The term refers to characters in video games that you interact with within in the game, that are not controlled by another player. When someone calls someone an NPC in real life, they are implying that they are “unable to think objectively” and continually repeat and regurgitate 'information' that's been fed to them by someone else.

65. What does FFR mean on TikTok?

There’s a couple of meanings for this one on the platform. FFR stands for ‘For F--king Real’. It’s also part of the lyrics to Nicki Minaj’s song ‘Super Freaky Girl’. The FFR part comes from the chorus when Nicki raps: “He want a F (F) R (R) E—A—K.” The second F in “FFR” is a repeat of the first F.

66. What does HGS mean on TikTok?

HGS stands for ‘Hot Girl Sh-t’, a phrase made popular by Megan Thee Stallion. According to Urban Dictionary, the phrase is “used to describe female behaviour that exudes confidence and a carefree attitude, indicating self awareness of how attractive she is.”

67. What does NNN mean on TikTok?

If you've come across any videos using 'NNN' in the caption or the hashtags, then that person is probably referencing 'No Nut November'. The trend pops up every year, with people abstaining from sex and masturbation in November as a challenge. There's several factors to the challenge, but ultimately, it all boils down to one golden rule: Absolutely no 'nutting' a.k.a. ejaculating.

68. What does Rizz mean on TikTok?

“Rizz” refers to someone’s ability to attract a love interest. So if someone says you have “rizz”, it means your flirt game is strong. The term was popularised on the internet by Twitch streamer and YouTuber Kai Cenat. There’s also several different types of "Rizz" but “unspoken rizz” is the rarest and most powerful.

69. What does Dupe mean on TikTok?

In internet culture, ‘Dupe’ is a prominent word used by beauty influencers to describe a cheaper, more affordable alternative to a high-end product. The word has now trickled into meme culture and ‘DOOP!’ has become a hilarious meme of its own thanks to the cost of living crisis. Riffing off the beauty influencers, Gen Z are now rebranding ‘knock-offs’ and completely random objects as ‘doops’ for things that are well known and expensive to buy outright.

70. What does LMR mean on TikTok?

The meaning behind all those LMR comments on TikTok is pretty simple, and it means the same thing across all social media platforms. LMR simply stands for 'Like My Recent'. Users typically comment LMR on other popular videos in order to drive likes and engagement to their newest posts.

71. What does OBCD mean on TikTok?

OBCD is another way of saying obesity. The term appears to have become popular thanks to YouTuber Nikocado Avocado. In a viral video that’s been doing the rounds on TikTok, Nikocado can be seen showing off his pantry, explaining that his OCD prompted him to display everything in an organised manner. Behind the camera, someone then says, “You mean your OBCD?” referring to Nikocado’s weight.

72. What does IJBOL meaning on TikTok?

If you thought IJBOL was a Korean slang term that had made its way into the wider Twittersphere, you’re not the only one… Users have been confused by the latest acronym but it actually has a really simple meaning. For those Gen Z users who think LOL and LMAO have lost their true meaning or have become deeply uncool to use on social media these days, IJBOL has arrived as an “even funnier” alternative. IJBOL actually stands for ‘I Just Burst Out Laughing’/‘I Just Bust Out Laughing’.

73. What does RCTA mean on TikTok?

You may have come across the phrases ‘Exposing RCTAs’ or ‘End RCTAs’ on TikTok recently. RCTA stands for ‘Race Change To Another‘, and the trend – which has been deemed problematic – is being called out by users on the platform. The term references people who were born as one race but now identify as another race. A similar term is ECTA, which means ‘ethnicity change to another.’

74. What does Pookie mean on TikTok?

'Pookie' has been popping up a lot on TikTok recently, and the meaning behind the term is pretty simple: It's just a term of endearment used to describe something cute. You might have come across various TikTok comments or captions describing someone as 'so pookie', which basically just means they think the person is adorable!

75. What does Glazing mean on TikTok?

‘Glazing’ has now trickled over from the Twitch stream chats and into the TIkTok comments, but what does it mean? To ‘glaze’ someone would mean to over-praise and over-compliment them, similar to – as Urban Dictionary puts it – ‘dickriding’ and being a ‘kiss-ass’.

76. What does PMTTWAMOWM mean on TikTok?

Over the past few months, the acronym PMTTWAMOWM has been popping up on TikTok all over the place – mostly on thirsty fan edits. But does does it stand for? Well, it means “Pin me to the wall and make out with me”. The acronym also sometimes varies, with the phrase starting with the standard PMTTWA ("Pin me to the wall and..."), before switching up the letters at the end depending on what the person wants the other one to do to them.

77. What does Fanum Tax mean on TikTok?

If you’ve come across the ‘Sticking Out My Gyat for the Rizzler’ song on TikTok, then you’re probably wondering what ‘Fanum Tax’ means… ‘Fanum Tax’ was popularised on Kai Cenat’s Twitch streams, and stems from streamer Fanum stealing his food and then leaving with it. It basically just means someone wants to ‘yoink’ your food, similar to the ‘food tax’ term that has been going viral on the platform. The phrase has now been generalised to mean 'to steal something'.

78. What does Edge mean on TikTok?

You may have seen thousands of “Vivek I edge to you” comments on TikTok recently, but what does it mean? ‘Edging’ is a sexual technique where someone will think about something else (usually non-sexual) in order to prevent them from climaxing. In this case, Gen Z users are trolling 2024 Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, after he said he wanted to raise the voting age in the US to 25. It’s an ironic tactic used to annoy him and flood his comments.

79. What does Roman Empire mean on TikTok?

The Roman Empire trend started when women started asking the men in their lives how often they think of the Roman Empire because the answers would be “surprising”. This then spiralled into a wider trend where people began sharing the things they think about 24/7, whether it’s a true crime case, a particular celebrity beef or a particular episode of TV.

80. What does DDD mean on TikTok?

You’ve heard of NNN (No Nut November), now get ready for DDD, which stands for ‘Destroy Dick December’. In response to the NNN trend, which sees people abstain from sex and masturbation throughout the month of November, internet users (mainly men) have now come up with DDD which, as you can imagine, is the complete opposite of what happens in November. So if you’ve wondering why DDD begins to start popping up on November 30th and December 1st, now you know…

81. What does PTSO mean on TikTok?

There’s a handful of things that PTSO could mean on the internet, but the most common TikTok use of the phrase is ‘Put That Sh*t On.’ PTSO is a compliment used to hype someone up. If someone comments PTSO or tells you that you’re ‘putting that sh-t on’, it means they think you’re dressed well and have style.

82. What does Delulu mean on TikTok?

This one is pretty simple: ‘Delulu’ just means delusional. It’s just a ‘girly pops’ way of joking about being delusional when it comes to literally anything, but mostly self-confidence. It’s not a self-deprecating thing, but more of a “who cares” confidence boosting thing. The term is said to have originated within the K-pop fandom, and has now become part of the wider TikTok lexicon. In one viral video posted by Moses Wong, the term is summed up perfectly: “In this generation, I believe that being delusional is one of the key factors to be happy. Remember guys, staying delulu is the solulu (solution). Think positive.”

83. What does Standing on Business mean on TikTok?

‘Standing on business’, according to Urban Dictionary, means to “take care of your responsibilities, practice what you preach, or show that you mean what you say/you can back up your claims”. When someone says they’re ‘standing on business’, it means that they are handling their stuff and not messing around. They are “about their grind.”

84. What does Mog mean on TikTok?

Mog means to be significantly more attractive than someone or something else. Apparently, you can also “mog” others by being taller, having a strong jawline or dressing well. Mogging is the act of being “superior” in physical appearance or overall attractiveness than others. The term has popped up in edits of celebrities that people think are the more attractive than the others in the video.

85. What does WPS mean on TikTok?

There’s countless meanings for the WPS initials online (Wifi-Protected Setup, anyone?) but on TikTok, this shortened phrase actually means White People Sh-t or White Person Sh-t. TikTokers have flagged unusual/questionable things that they believe white people seem to exclusively do.

86. What does FYM mean on TikTok?

So, you’ve heard of FYP… but what about FYM. Well, it’s a bit more explicit than the For You Page. FYM stands for ‘F--k You Mean’ and it’s literally just a shortened way of saying “What the f--k do you mean?” Simple as that!

87. What does Opp mean on TikTok?

If you see someone talking about their “opps” on TikTok, it means they’re talking about their opposition a.k.a. their enemies. An “opp” can be anything from a genuine personal enemy or a lighthearted joke about a parent who won’t let you do something or an imaginary hater.

88. What does Mewing mean on TikTok?

Mewing is a beauty craze that thousands of TikTok users deploy in videos in order to change the profile of their neck and chin. The technique involves "the process of placing the tongue at the roof of the mouth and applying pressure to cause changes to the jawline.”

89. What does Coquette mean on TikTok?

The coquette aesthetic has completely taken over TikTok, but what does it mean? The actual definition of ‘coquette’ is “a woman who flirts lightheartedly with men to win their admiration and affection”. But the TikTok trend basically encapsulates everything idyllic, dainty, feminine and romantic. Think little pink bows on everything and vintage, summery fashion.

90. What does STTM mean on TikTok?

If you’ve seen the letters STTM and are wondering what it means, here’s your answer. It literally just means ‘Stop talking to me’.

91. What does FW mean on TikTok?

On TikTok, FW is the abbreviated way of saying you ‘f—k with’ something. If you ‘f—k with’ something, it means you agree with it, you like it, you appreciate it and/or you’re down with it. It’s a very positive sentiment. It can also be used to express how much you like or appreciate someone, so if someone says they ‘fw you’, that’s a good thing!

92. What does e/n mean on TikTok?

If you're on BookTok, or have stumbled across any 'Imagines' on your FYP, you might have seen the phrase 'e/n' in various captions. The term is basically the same as the popular 'Y/N' (your name) term in creative writing and fanfiction. E/N, in this instance, means 'enemy name'. So, if you see 'E/N' in any prompts or 'Imagines', it means readers will replace it with the name of their, or their character's enemy.

93. What does Hawk Tuah mean on TikTok?

‘Hawk Tuah’ is a slightly-NSFW (given the context) onomatopoeic phrase that was ‘coined’ by ‘Hawk Tuah Girl’ Hailey Welch in a viral street interview. In the clip, Hailey is asked about the one move that makes a man go crazy. In response, she says: “You gotta give ’em that ‘hawk tuah’ and spit on that thang.” So there you have it. ‘Hawk Tuah’ is basically a way of spelling out the sound of someone spitting...

94. What does IFB mean on TikTok?

IFB stands for ‘I Follow Back’ and is used by people looking to grow their following on TikTok. Creators using ‘IFB’ will also usually use the word ‘Teamwork’ alongside the three letters, which signifies to other users that they will follow anyone who follows them. The aim of the trend is to help smaller creators gain over 10,000 followers to they get access to the Creator Fund programme.

95. What does Aura mean on TikTok?

Aura is essentially the new “vibe”. When someone mentions your aura, it’s similar to describing what kind of vibe you’re giving off or how much rizz you have – it’s basically the energy you emit. If you give off a mysterious, cool energy, you have “aura”. However, if you’re uncool, you have “negative aura”. You can also gain “aura points”, which is a point system that gauges someone’s level of cool-ness.

96. What does Sigma mean on TikTok?

If you’ve spent time on Gen Alpha TikTok, then you may have heard of the phrase ‘Erm, what the Sigma?’. While Sigma is mostly known as a Greek letter, the Gen Alpha meaning behind the word is internally just a “cool guy” who plays by their own rules. According to Know Your Meme, the definition is: “Men who are successful and popular, but also silent and rebellious.”

97. What does Skibidi mean on TikTok?

Skibidi Toilet refers to a meme from a YouTube series about an army of toilets trying to take over the world. (Yes, you read that correctly) ‘Skibidi Toilet’ doesn’t really have any meaning, but the word ‘Skibidi’ has now taken on a life of its own. The Gen Alpha meaning behind ‘Skibidi’ is similar to something like “very” or “totally”. So, ’Skibidi Toilet Rizz’ means you’re very charismatic. ‘Skibidi Ohio Rizz’ means you’re very bad at flirting. (Ohio means ‘bad, for some reason…)

98. What does Bop mean on TikTok?

To most of us, ‘bop’ means a really good song – a banger! But Gen Z have now changed the meaning of the word… In a viral TikTok from 2023, @theyhateonbrian1 explained that the new meaning of the word can refer to anyone who “posts their body on the internet”, although it’s typically used by men in a derogatory way and aimed at women.

99. What does Type Shii mean on TikTok?

The phrase ‘Type Shii’ has been popping up a lot on TikTok lately, but the slang term has been around for years on other platforms and offline circles. It can mean a handful of things, including “I feel you” or “I hear you” to agree with what someone is saying, or to show that you’re listening to their point. It can also be used as a generalisation for something.

100. What does Ohio mean on TikTok?

Sorry to everyone from Ohio but did you know the name of the state is now a ‘brain rot’ word that Gen Alpha uses for ’bad’. Yep, if someone describes something as ‘Ohio’, it means it’s cringey, bad or lame. If someone calls another person ‘Ohio’, it means they’re a loser.

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  3. A Comprehensive Guide to Slang Words in English • 7ESL

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  1. Essayed

    Essayed. Verb - to be essayed. To be given a long winded response equal in length to a small essay, usually in defense of an imagined slight due to miscommunication on a web forum. In response to his sarcastic joke, John got essayed by the original poster.

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