New York City is known for its fast pace, diverse culture, and distinct way of speaking. Whether you’re a local, a transplant, or a visitor, understanding New York slang can help you blend in and navigate the city like a pro. This guide explores the origins, meanings, and common usage of NYC slang, giving you a deep dive into the language of the Big Apple.
The Origins of New York Slang
New York slang is a reflection of its cultural melting pot, influenced by African American Vernacular English (AAVE), Yiddish, Italian, and Latino communities. Many of these words and phrases emerged from the boroughs of Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Harlem, spreading into mainstream pop culture through music, film, and social media.
General New York Slang Words and Phrases
Everyday Slang
- Deadass – Seriously, truthfully. (e.g., “I’m deadass tired.”)
- Brick – Extremely cold. (e.g., “It’s brick outside!”)
- Mad – Very or a lot. (e.g., “That pizza is mad good.”)
- OD (Overdoing it) – Excessive or too much. (e.g., “She OD’d on the perfume.”)
- Word – Expression of agreement. (e.g., “You really did that? Word.”)
- Tight – Upset or angry. (e.g., “I was tight when I missed my train.”)
- Buggin’ – Acting crazy or irrationally. (e.g., “You’re buggin’ if you think I’m paying that much!”)
- Wavy – Cool or stylish. (e.g., “His fit is wavy.”)
- Dub – A loss or rejection. (e.g., “That party was a dub.”)
- Guap/Cake/Cheese – Money. (e.g., “I need to make some guap.”)
- Drid – Annoyed. (e.g., “I’m drid with this situation.”)
- On deck – Next, ready. (e.g., “Who’s on deck to bat?”)
- Salty – Bitter or upset. (e.g., “He’s salty about losing.”)
- Bet – Agreement or confirmation. (e.g., “Bet, I’ll be there.”)
- Facts – Truth, undeniable statement. (e.g., “Rent in NYC is wild.” “Facts.”)
- Lit – Fun or exciting. (e.g., “That party was lit.”)
- Shook – Surprised or taken aback. (e.g., “I was shook by the news.”)
- Sus – Suspicious. (e.g., “That guy is sus.”)
- No cap – No lie, for real. (e.g., “No cap, that’s the truth.”)
- Frontin’ – Pretending to be something you’re not. (e.g., “Don’t be frontin’.”)
Food & Bodega Slang
- Bodega – A small neighborhood convenience store.
- Chopped cheese – A popular sandwich made with ground beef, cheese, and onions on a roll.
- Bacon, egg, and cheese (BEC) – A classic NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Aki way – A custom sandwich order, usually involving extra ingredients.
- Nutcracker – A homemade alcoholic drink sold in NYC streets during the summer.
- Schmear – A generous spread of cream cheese on a bagel.
- Hero – A sub sandwich. (e.g., “I’ll take a turkey hero on a roll.”)
- Slice – A piece of pizza. (e.g., “I’m craving a slice.”)
- Pie – A whole pizza. (e.g., “Let’s grab a pie.”)
NYC Lifestyle & Transit Slang
- Hop the turnstile – Jumping over the subway gate to avoid paying.
- The city – Referring specifically to Manhattan.
- The train – The subway. (e.g., “Take the train downtown.”)
- MTA – Metropolitan Transportation Authority, NYC’s transit system.
- Uptown/Downtown – Directions relative to Manhattan.
- Stoop – The steps in front of a building.
- Gridlock – Traffic congestion.
- The Five Boroughs – The five boroughs of NYC (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island).
Expressions of Agreement & Attitude
- Yerrr/Yurrr – A greeting or enthusiastic exclamation.
- No doubt – Absolutely, definitely.
- Ight/Aight – Alright, okay.
- Nah/Nahmean/Nah’m Sayin’ – No, or “you understand?”
- Take the L – To take a loss or accept defeat.
- We out – A way to say you are leaving.
How New York Slang Has Evolved
New York slang is constantly changing with the times. While older slang like “son” and “word is bond” were staples in the 90s, newer terms like “no cap” and “vibe check” have taken over in the digital age. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram continue to accelerate the spread of NYC lingo beyond city limits.
How to Use New York Slang Like a Local
If you want to sound like a true New Yorker, follow these tips:
- Speak with confidence – New Yorkers don’t hesitate in their speech.
- Keep it casual – NYC slang is conversational and often informal.
- Listen before you speak – Learn how locals use the words in different contexts.
- Avoid overusing it – Dropping a slang word here and there is fine, but forcing it can sound unnatural.
Conclusion
New York slang is an ever-evolving reflection of the city’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or living in NYC, understanding local slang can make your experience more authentic. Stay tuned to the city’s music, media, and street conversations to keep up with the latest lingo.
Disclaimer: This guide provides an overview of New York slang for informational purposes only. Slang meanings and usage may vary by borough, community, and context. Readers should use these terms appropriately and be mindful of cultural nuances.
